Generally when I am on MS, I tend to bash most movies I have seen. Why? Because every single one insults an average moviegoers’ intelligence. So this time I will review a movie that I actually liked Matchstick Men.
Matchstick Men is a story about Roy (Nicholas Cage) a con man who has to deal with various mental issues (OCD, neuroses, etc). He and his partner Frank (Sam Rockwell) are about to hit a really big con when Roy’s estranged daughter Angela (Alison Lohman) comes suddenly into his life. The movie shows the life of Roy as a matchstick man (con man) how he interacts with his daughter. and he he plans for his next big score.
What I really liked about this film is that there was no plot holes in it. When I see a movie with easily covered over plot holes I cringe. But you won’t find that here, I found that very refreshing!
The Acting
Nicholas Cage is one of the best actors I have ever seen, and his quality work is evident here. He plays Roy and all of his issues perfectly. Sam Rockwell is not in as much as the movie, but he is O.K when he is on-screen. Alison Lohman is very convincing as a 14 year old (she is actually 24) and plays her role very well. All of the other bit players (the ’’mark’’ and the shrink) also are believable.
The Story:
As mentioned above this is a story about Roy the con man and his daughter who he has never seen. Frank is wary of Angela (the daughter) because he thinks she will ruin Roy’s concentration on his next big job, a money exchange rate scam. After father and daughter meet, they show each other new things (Roy shows Angela how to con people, and Angela shows Roy how to have a little fun) and eventually Roy and Angela connect as only a father and daughter can. I cant tell you what happens after that, but it is a wild, enjoyable ride and well worth seeing, especially one very big plot twist! What I will say is that everything you need to know is provided in the film. For example Roy shows Angela a few cons, and Roy’s love for his daughter forces him to see a shrink, even though he really doesnt want to. There is only oner drawback to this film, once you have seen it, it isn’t nearly as good.
The Direction:
Ridley Scoot directed this movie and did an excellent job, he can really immerse you into a story, kudos to him!
So, I highly recommend this movie (and from me that means something!) Go out and rent it today!