Darren Aronofsky, director of intense references such as Black Swan or The Whale, surprises with Caught Stealing, a frenetic and musically powerful crime comedy that is already conquering cinemas. The film combines the darkest humor with a nostalgic portrait of New York in the 90s, and injects a punk energy thanks to its soundtrack, made by IDLES with composer Rob Simonsen.
An imposing cast for a story with no bends
The film follows Hank Thompson, played by a charismatic Austin Butler: a former baseball star, now a bartender, who becomes embroiled in criminal mayhem after agreeing to take care of his punk neighbor’s cat. He is accompanied by Zoë Kravitz, Regina King, Matt Smith, Bad Bunny, Liev Schreiber and Vincent D’Onofrio, who provide dynamism and memorable moments, especially in scenes full of black humor, violence and pure street rhythm.
The soundtrack: quickening the pulse
In a bold move, Aronofsky commissions the main soundtrack to the British band IDLES, performing music composed by Rob Simonsen. The idea: to use the band as the film’s real orchestra, filling the story with punk textures, feedback and raw melodies. IDLES contributes five original songs, including the fast-paced “Rabbit Run” and a visceral version of “Police and Thieves”.
“It’s been a dream to watch him bend his notes to pierce the screen for our film,” Aronofsky celebrates.
City, chaos and criminal comedy with soundtrack
The story allows Aronofsky to explore the New York of 1998, before its accelerated gentrification. An environment plagued by urban essence, where bars, graffiti and the stridency of sound find their right moment of punk glamour.
Critics highlight this contrast of crime comedy with dramatic roots, a cocktail that, although it does not redefine the genre, results in an electrifying and fun-filled journey.
