You know what I simply love to do? Root for a bunch of lovable underdog criminals as they try to execute a complicated, often to the point of being doomed, heist adventure. To quote this sage guy on Twitter, I just think they’re cool and I’m sad when things start going bad for them.
Out of Sight (1998) is a perfect iteration of this genre, made by Steven Soderbergh. As with many of Soderbergh films, Out of Sight has glossy visuals and a great soundtrack. It also has George Clooney at his best (in my opinion). He is the most sparkly, handsome and charming he’s ever been as Jack Foley, a career bank robber who breaks out of prison and teams up with some friends and enemies to do one last big job.
After escaping from prison, he ends up squeezing into the trunk of his getaway vehicle with US Marshall, Karen Sisco (Jennifer Lopez).
Instantly they have an undeniable connection, which creates a romantic subplot that is so powerful it makes a generic hotel in Detroit seem like the most romantic place on earth. The chemistry - it’s off the charts, people. Case in point, this scene:
Jennifer Lopez is also really great in this movie, it’s the perfect role for her, and the peak of her entire career as far as I’m concerned.
One funny (and unsubstantiated) rumor is that Jennifer and George couldn’t stand each other while shooting this film. Maybe that’s true, but the mutual attraction is very clearly playing out for all to see. All I’m saying is, you be the judge. Out of Sight is currently streaming on Netflix Canada.