If you want to see why people in this country are so angry, go see Money Monster.
In the movie, a frustrated young man named Kyle (Jack O’Connell) finds his way on to the set of a hot financial show and threatens to kill host Lee Gates (George Clooney) on live TV for recommending a stock that mysteriously tanked, causing him to lose the $60,000 he was counting on to take care of his girlfriend and baby.
“That’s just pocket change to you, right?” he spits at Gates, while strapping on an explosive-packed vest.
Gates is arrogant and self-absorbed, and his director, Patty (Julia Roberts) has her hands full trying to keep him focused. As the action unfolds, it’s also up to her to try to keep everyone alive.
The story takes place in real time, and viewers quickly get behind Kyle, relating to his frustration with the corrupt system and wanting answers. How can a “computer glitch” be responsible for an $800 million stock loss?
“This is just business, and it’s how business is run,” Kyle is told. But for all the small investors out there — those who actually look to “experts” like Lee for advice — this is an unsatisfactory explanation. And it’s just not true. Being cheated is personal.
Surprisingly directed by Jodie Foster, Money Monster is a timely story and a thought-provoking one. It’s not a great movie — there are no big revelations here, it’s predictable and it feels like it’s kind of endorsing Kyle’s form of terrorism as the only way to get to the bottom of corporate fraud — but Clooney and Roberts have a natural chemistry that transcends the script and is a joy to watch.
The movie also serves as a cautionary tale, offering one big stock tip that you’d be wise to remember: “Wall Street is a casino. They’re gambling with your money.”
I just read an interview with the director and two stars – it sounds like a really good chemistry between the three of them and decades of experience that shows through. Definitely worth watching I’m sure.
This will be worth watching once it’s released to streaming services. For so many of us who only have 401(k)’s as our company retirement plans (defined benefit plans went out the window years and years ago), we have little choice but to play in that Wall Street Casino. Even after we retire. It isn’t a comfortable thought.
I agree. We have money invested in Wall Street, and this movie definitely made me nervous about it.
I’ve had this movie on my radar for awhile and I am really excited to see Clooney and Roberts together again. I was hoping it would be a fabulous storyline, but it doesn’t sound like it.
George and Julia together is such a draw that even if the movie is just so-so, I am still interested!
I just saw this movie yesterday! I agree with your review. It was an enjoyable movie not a great movie. I really liked Julia Roberts in it and yes, she and Clooney have fabulous chemistry. It definitely was a pretty telling indictment of those who take a $60K loss lightly.
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Traci
Who doesn’t love George and Julia separate but together, even better? And I have always loved Jodie Foster. This has me very interested and adding it to my “must see” list.
I think I might wait for this one to go to video. I don’t like that the director, Foster, seems to support citizen terrorism. Thanks for the info, though.
Sounds like an interesting movie, but on the fence if I’m going to actually see it. Although I love Julia Roberts :-).
There is so much anger in our country right now – I can see why the story would touch a chord. I love both Julia Roberts & George Clooney – I’ll bet they are great together.
I have not heard of this money. But I love George and Julia. Going on my “to see” list.
Cant wait to see this! I love both actors
Thank you for an honest review. I am not a big movie person, but I am thinking of watching it just because I like the cast.
I really want to see this movie so thanks for the great review! I love George and Julia, and I’m interested in the topic too – it looks great!
I have been seeing the previews for this movie and it looks so good. George adn Julia are always a great duo in movies.
I just finished my review for this to publish tomorrow! I had to see it like a regular citizen (no free screening!) and wasn’t all that thrilled with it. But, it was entertaining and kept me busy on a rainy afternoon. š
Agree! Looking forward to reading your review!