Interesting take on the con-job theme.

Rating: 8/10 (25 June 2013)

This is an offbeat movie that approaches the level of excellence but does not quite make it. The story is cleverly developed and the acting excellent but in total the project, although entertaining, just misses the mark. The biggest problem with the movie is the ending, which will not be revealed here. Suffice it to say, however, that it could have been treated better. Also, James Franco, although a wonderful actor, seemed to be not the right actor for the part of the FBI agent, which is the principal character in the story. Not that he does not do a good job with the role, but it seems that the story required a different kind of character than the one played by Franco. As for the rest of the cast, they are excellent. Morgan Freeman again delivers a strong performance and Michael Caine is superb. These wonderful actors, both up in years, defy time. One thing this movie shows is that inside information plus some cleverly staged tricks can produce some interesting results, especially when money is involved.