A classic heist film from 1979, “Going in Style,” directed by Martin Brest, has had a lasting impact on the cinematic scene. The original featured a touching storyline about three elderly men who decide to rob a bank to escape their mundane lives. Stars George Burns, Art Carney, and Lee Strasberg brought depth to their characters, making the film more than just a comedy.
Morgan Freeman’s Heist Film: A Missed Opportunity on Netflix
In 2017, a remake of this beloved film was released, titled “Going in Style.” The new version, directed by Zach Braff and featuring a star-studded cast including Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, and Alan Arkin, attempted to bring the story to a modern audience. However, it surprisingly went largely unnoticed.
The Premise and Execution of the Remake
Unlike the original, where the protagonists impulsively decide to rob a bank for excitement, Braff’s version presents a more contrived plot. The main characters are motivated by the loss of their pensions after a corporate takeover. This shift in focus somewhat undermines the spontaneity that made Brest’s film appealing.
Additionally, Braff includes unnecessary subplots, such as Freeman’s character needing a kidney transplant, which detracts from the film’s pacing. The heist is depicted as a desperate attempt to help the protagonists’ friends and family rather than a whimsical adventure.
Reception and Legacy
- Original Film: “Going in Style” (1979) is known for its bittersweet tone and character depth.
- Remake: “Going in Style” (2017) has received mixed reviews, often criticized for lacking originality.
- Streaming Availability: The original is available on Prime Video and Apple TV, while the remake can be found on Netflix.
- Box Office Performance: The remake was a commercial success despite its poor critical reception.
While the 2017 “Going in Style” may have achieved some commercial success, it fails to capture the genuine charm of the original. For viewers searching for a heartwarming heist flick, the 1979 version stands out as the superior choice. Morgan Freeman’s involvement in the remake does not quite redeem it, proving that even star power can’t always mask an uninspired script.
