“I’ve been caught stealin’ once when I was five.” “I enjoy stealin’, it’s simple as that.” “Oh well, it’s just a simple fact.” When I want something, man, I don’t wanna pay for it.” – Jane’s Addiction.”
In 2005, novelist/comic book writer, Charlie Huston (Moon Knight, Joe Pitt Casebook series) published a novel titled, “Caught Stealing.” Set in the year 2000, the story follows former baseball player turned bartender named, Hank Thompson who lives in New York City. When his neighbor, Russ asks him to catsit, gangsters barge into the apartment demanding a key for something very important. Drama ensues, Hank must find the key if he wants to make it out alive. The novel spawned two sequels, “Six Bad Things” and “A Dangerous Man.”
Eight Years Later, David Hayter (Solid Snake from Metal Gear Solid) was formulating a plan to adapt “The Hank Thompson Trilogy” with Caught Stealing as the first installment with Patrick Wilson as the main protagonist. Plans were scrapped due to the pair’s scheduling conflicts. In 2024, Sony bought the film rights to produce Caught Stealing. Darren Aronofsky (Requiem for a Dream, Black Swan, The Whale) signed on to direct. His first action-comedy outside his comfort zone. He’s primarily known for making character driven psychological thrillers. Austin Butler signed on to portray Hank Thompson.
Caught Stealing earned praise from critics and movie goers alike. However, it was a commercial flop. It’s unlikely a trilogy will happen. Anyway, Austin Butler’s next film is an A24 crime drama titled, “Enemies.” It’ll be released sometime around 2026. I’m currently watching 2025 films before I post an editorial, “Top 12 Films of 2025.” See which ones deserve to be on my list. It might take a while for me to coordinate specific films. So bear with me, folks.
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS whatsoever.
Rich & Poor Aspects
Rich: Austin Butler did a fantastic job for his performance.
Other Cast Members such as Zoë Kravitz, Regina King, Liev Schreiber, Vincent D’Onofrio, Bad Bunny & Action Bronson all did a decent job for their respective performances.
Fun Fact: At one point, Hank’s girlfriend, Yvonne mentioned she likes cats. It’s funny because Ms. Kravitz played Catwoman in “The Batman.”
Darren Aronofsky did a great job directing. He also co-produced the film courtesy of his production company, Protozoa Pictures.
Action Sequences are brutal and intense.
Charlie Huston wrote the script. Making sure certain plot elements from the book remain intact.
Random Thoughts
- I think the novel and film’s title is named after Jane’s Addiction’s “Been Caught Stealing.”
- I admit. I didn’t see Caught Stealing in theaters. I was recouping my expenses from attending Fan Expo Dallas 2025. Plus, I’m very selective when it comes to seeing a movie.
Rob Simonsen (Moneyball, The Whale, Deadpool and Wolverine) and post-punk band, Idles orchestrated the soundtrack.
Funny Moments made me laugh. Especially a running gag involving Hank’s neighbor telling him to be quiet.
Cinematography’s shot in stable condition lacking technical problems throughout.
Pacing didn’t feel like a drab at all. I was hooked since the Opening Scene.
Unlike the book, the film takes place in 1998 (same year Elle Fanning was born) instead of 2000.
Flashbacks show why Hank ended his baseball career.
Carol Kane makes a brief appearance.
Laura Dern makes a cameo appearance.
Poor: I couldn’t find nothing wrong. I’m giving the cast and crew and Extra Point for making a flawless film as possible.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!
Caught Stealing is a surprisingly great film. I didn’t expect Darren Aronofsky to top “The Whale.” He managed to top it. I see the former as one of my favorite films of 2025. A darn shame a trilogy will never happen due Sony losing millions at the box office. This is why we can’t have nice things. If you’re interested in seeing Caught Stealing, stream it on Netflix.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 