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 and based on Charlie Huston's 2004 novel, this black comedy crime thriller stars Austin Butler as Hank Thompson, a washed-up ex-baseball player turned bartender who gets way more than he bargained for when he agrees to pet-sit his neighbor’s cat.

Set in the late '90s, the film throws Hank into a chaotic world of Russian mobsters, corrupt cops, drug dealers, and a whole lot of bad luck. What starts as a simple favor quickly spirals into a violent and unpredictable struggle for survival. With a kidney stolen, a key hidden in a litter box, and a trail of bodies piling up, Hank is forced to navigate a criminal maze he never saw coming.

Austin Butler shines in the lead role, earning praise for his performance, and Aronofsky brings a surprisingly playful tone to the film, a shift from his usual intense style. The supporting cast is stacked with talent, including Regina King, Zoë Kravitz, Matt Smith, Liev Schreiber, and Bad Bunny (credited as Benito A. Martínez Ocasio), all adding flavor to this twisted tale.

The film’s soundtrack, composed by Rob Simonsen and recorded by British post-punk band Idles, adds a gritty, energetic vibe that matches the film’s chaotic energy. Their cover of "Police and Thieves" is a standout moment.

Caught Stealing has been generally well-received by critics, with an 84% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a solid "B" grade from audiences via CinemaScore. It’s a film that doesn’t take itself too seriously, even as the bullets fly and the stakes rise. If you enjoy dark comedies, crime capers, or just want to see Austin Butler in a role that’s equal parts charming and desperate, this one’s worth checking out.

That said, if you’re not a fan of violence, morally gray characters, or stories that dive deep into the criminal world, this might not be your cup of tea. But for those who like their thrillers with a side of dark humor and a dash of chaos, Caught Stealing delivers.