Money Monster

As of late, a number of films have been focusing on the state of the economy. Some use it as the motive for a zany scheme in a comedy. Others as a means of a high-stakes thriller. Either way, you tend to get at least a decent film.

So how does Jodie Foster's Money Monster fare? (Pun not intended.) Indeed it does highlight the aftermath of financial decisions but something in Foster's execution that feels off kilter. That said, how does the rest of the film's many elements work?

Money Monster features a solid roster of actors: George Clooney, Julia Roberts, Jack O'Connell, Catriona Balfe and Dominic West. And Foster ensures consistent from them all, O'Connell in particular. But again, the film's pacing limits the actors considerably.

How so though? Well, Money Monster starts with all pistons running but for a film with a running time of 98 minutes, that can only last for so long. (It starts to give way about halfway through.) Still, you have to admire the crew's tenacity.

Money Monster definitely has ambition brimming in it though it doesn't fully deliver. Indeed the work from its director and stars is good but all they present is a familiar take on an old yarn. Hey, one can only go so far with one plot...

My Rating: ***1/2