Film Review – The Mastermind

“The Mastermind” is often identified as a heist movie, and perhaps there’s some truth to that label. It deals with a man attempting to organize the theft of four paintings from a local museum, handling the planning and execution of a crime that means more to him than simple financial gain. While thoughts of near-misses and scheming come to mind, the feature is the latest from writer/director Kelly Reichardt, and she’s not one to indulge the simple pleasures of flashy filmmaking and furious pacing. The helmer of thoughtful endeavors such as “Wendy and Lucy,” “Certain Women,” and 2022’s little-seen “Showing Up,” Reichardt mostly deals with screen stillness, looking to examine unique characterizations and quiet spaces. This creative approach doesn’t bring much intensity to “The Mastermind,” but those in tune with Reichardt’s work might find something to savor in this muted offering. Read the rest at Blu-ray.com