Widows

— “Widows” is a very good film and much more than just an all-women heist film. Don’t think “Oceans 8” or many of the usual variety where there tends to be a bit of glitz and glamour, and characters who are all the best in their criminal specialties, often appearing to have a whole lot of fun as an intricate caper unfolds. Instead, almost everyone in “Widows” is somehow enmeshed or embroiled in one form of corruption or another. The “widows” have found themselves dropped in the middle of things when they lose their husbands, pretty much penniless, friendless, and without a parachute, so the heist they plan is driven by fear and need in a gritty world, and isn't just some clever scheme playing out in a classy world where everyone drinks martinis. Yes, the plot is intricate with plenty of twists and turns to keep the audience on its toes, but there’s a look of desperation, not smugness, as the widows with no criminal backgrounds do their best to get up to speed and pull off a complicated robbery. These are thieves with whom viewers can identify, not witty gadabouts and their clever pals. Viola Davis shines, as does almost everyone in the ensemble cast, and the entire fabric of the film is perfect, holding everything together while exploring several issues—political corruption, female empowerment, racial and ethnic issues, class distinctions, etc.—all at play in a corrupt and violent world. It was a treat to see this film, thanks in no small part to Gillian Flynn and the incredibly talented Steve McQueen.

---

[2018. 129 min. Written by Gillian Flynn and Steve McQueen. Directed by Steve McQueen. Starring Viola Davis, Michelle Rodriguez, Elizabeth Debicki, Colin Farrell, Daniel Kaluuya, Liam Neeson, and Robert Duvall.]
https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/widows-2018