The trailer for Josh O’Connor‘s new movie, The Mastermind, has been unveiled ahead of its cinematic release. The film follows O’Connor, known for his roles in God’s Own Country and The Crown, portraying a shy carpenter who unexpectedly turns to crime.
After losing his job and struggling with boredom, his character devises a detailed plan to steal a valuable piece of artwork, marking his entrance into a life of crime.
Plot Overview and Supporting Cast
The hesitant carpenter enlists the help of his friends, conducting their heist planning sessions in a basement setting. Despite his meek demeanor, he manages to outwit the authorities with surprising ease, raising the question of whether he can succeed in the daring theft.
The film also stars Alana Haim of the band HAIM, alongside John Magaro, Hope Davis, Bill Camp, Gaby Hoffmann, and Amanda Plummer, creating a diverse ensemble supporting O’Connor’s lead.
Festival Premieres and Critical Reception
The Mastermind premiered at the Cannes Film Festival before its scheduled October release, where it attracted attention from critics. It has received an overwhelmingly positive response, boasting an 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 35 reviews.
RogerEbert.com praised the film, stating,
“The Mastermind may be a heist movie about a novice thief with a dumb plan. But Reichardt pulls it off like clockwork: This film is stupendously smart,”
attributing the success to director Kelly Reichardt‘s precise execution.
IGN highlighted Josh O’Connor’s performance, noting,
“With a career-best performance by Josh O’Connor, it’s a sharply incisive and often darkly funny gem that bolsters Reichardt’s reputation as one of our finest living filmmakers.”
The Guardian emphasized the film’s focus on aftermath, commenting,
“In The Mastermind, the dreary details of post-heist calamity are as pertinent as the main event. It is this that attracts Reichardt’s observing eye and makes The Mastermind so quietly gripping,”
underscoring the film’s contemplative tone.
Release Dates and Anticipation
The Mastermind is set to be released in United States cinemas on October 17, followed by its UK premiere on October 24. Fans of Josh O’Connor and crime thrillers are eagerly awaiting the film’s arrival in theaters this autumn.
