A new crime comedy set in Boston, "The Instigators," is set to debut on Apple TV+ in three days. Despite its star-studded cast and local authenticity, the film fails to deliver a compelling narrative.
Matt Damon and Casey Affleck, both Massachusetts natives, lead the cast as Rory and Cobby, two local criminals tasked with robbing an election-night party. The film also features Hong Chau as Rory's psychiatrist, with supporting roles from Michael Stuhlbarg, Alfred Molina, Ron Perlman, Toby Jones, and Ving Rhames.
Directed by Doug Liman, known for "The Bourne Identity" released 22 years ago, "The Instigators" struggles to overcome a weak screenplay. The plot revolves around a botched heist, leading to a prolonged chase across Boston's neighborhoods, including Dorchester and the North Shore, before culminating at the brutalist Boston City Hall.
While the film excels in capturing Boston's essence, with geographically accurate chase scenes and well-executed local accents, it falls short as a cohesive narrative. Damon's portrayal of Rory, a troubled man with financial woes and suicidal thoughts, offers some depth. In contrast, Affleck's Cobby comes across as a stereotypical Boston character, reminiscent of his "Saturday Night Live" Dunkin' Donuts parody.
The movie's attention to local details, such as the correct pronunciation of "Quincy" and the accurate depiction of routes along Storrow Drive and Memorial Drive, will likely please Boston natives. However, these elements may not resonate with viewers unfamiliar with the city.
"It's 101 minutes of talented people struggling to make a silk purse out of a sow's ear and coming up with a Filene's Basement handbag."
Despite its shortcomings, "The Instigators" may appeal to existing Apple TV+ subscribers seeking light entertainment. The film runs for 101 minutes and is rated R for pervasive language and some violence.