Caught Stealing

If you're into gritty crime thrillers with a dark sense of humor and a wild ride through the underbelly of New York City, Caught Stealing might just be your next favorite watch. Directed by Darren Aronofsky, this 2025 film stars Austin Butler as Hank Thompson, a washed-up ex-baseball player turned bartender who finds himself way over his head after agreeing to pet-sit his neighbor’s cat. What starts as a simple favor quickly spirals into a chaotic mess involving Russian mobsters, corrupt cops, drug dealers, and a whole lot of bad luck.

Set in the late '90s, the movie captures the grimy, unpredictable energy of the Lower East Side with a mix of suspense, dark comedy, and unexpected twists. Butler’s performance has been widely praised, showing off his range as a leading man who can handle both action and emotional depth. Aronofsky, known for his intense and often heavy films, takes a slightly more playful approach here—though don’t expect anything too lighthearted. This is still a story filled with violence, betrayal, and some seriously shady characters.

The supporting cast is stacked, featuring Regina King, Zoë Kravitz, Matt Smith, Liev Schreiber, Vincent D'Onofrio, and Bad Bunny (credited as Benito A. Martínez Ocasio), among others. Each brings their own flavor to the film’s chaotic world, adding layers to the tangled web Hank finds himself caught in.

Musically, the film stands out thanks to a score by Rob Simonsen, recorded with the British post-punk band Idles. Their gritty, raw sound fits perfectly with the film’s tone, and they even contribute a cover of “Police and Thieves” to the soundtrack.

Caught Stealing isn’t for everyone. If you’re not into crime dramas or stories that dive into the darker corners of humanity, this might not be your cup of tea. But if you enjoy fast-paced thrillers with a bit of edge, a flawed but compelling protagonist, and a story that keeps you guessing, it’s definitely worth checking out.

Critics have responded positively, with an 84% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a solid “B” CinemaScore from audiences. It’s a stylish, chaotic, and surprisingly fun ride through a world where one wrong move can change everything.