Ocean’s 8 Review: These Pros May Have a Con (3.5/5 Stars)

By:Victor Philip Ortiz

17 years after the first Ocean’s Eleven which itself was a remake of the original 1960 film, we’re treated to a whole new version of the popular heist series that now features woman because it’s 2018. But don’t let that fact prevent you from seeing Ocean’s 8, because it’s still a stylish, funny film as the previous entries in the series were, even if the plot didn’t wow as much.

In Ocean’s 8, Debbie Ocean (Danny Ocean’s brother played wonderfully by Sandra Bullock) gets released on parole where she immediately plans a heist the moment she steps out of prison. It mimics the first scene of Ocean’s Eleven, and the entire movie somehow oozes the same vibe and style as the 2001 movie.

In Debbie’s case though she assembles a team of 6 people including Debbie’s right hand Lou (Cate Blanchett), fashion designer Rose (Helena Bonham Carter), jewelry maker Amita (Mindy Kaling), hacker Nine Ball (Rihanna), pickpocketer Constance (Awkwafina) and Debbie’s friend Tammy (Sarah Poulson) to plan the heist, which involves stealing a Cartier Toussaint diamond necklace worth $150 million. They plan to steal the necklace during the Met Gala, where it will be worn by actress and socialite Daphne Kluger (Anne Hathaway).

Much of the film takes place preparing for the heist, and the chemistry between the entire cast resonates on how much fun they’re having, much like how their characters would interact. The plot fluidly gives each of them enough spotlight to showcase their talent, and even with some questionable loopholes in the story you’d still enjoy the movie as long as you don’t overthink what’s happening on screen.

Since the setting of the film takes place during the glittery party setting of the Met Gala, the actresses went all out in costumes and boy do they impress. Also, expect a few cameos from veteran Ocean’s Eleven characters and a long list of actors and actresses which we won’t spoil here.

As with all Ocean’s movies, Ocean’s 8 includes various plot twists that should keep you entertained. Most of it is handled well and if you’re paying enough attention to the movie, there’s a good chance that you would’ve figured it out before they reveal it.

I guess that’s how Ocean’s 8 wants to be, a good movie to see during a late night or a weekend and just like the characters, you’re seeing it to have fun. It’s not Oscar-worthy or something that begs multiple viewings, but the main cast is enough to make the movie above average and there’s a good chance that if this movie breaks the bank, you’d be seeing Ocean’s 9 and Ocean’s 10 in the next few years. I go with 3.5 stars.