Katie Holmes joins Diane Keaton and Queen Latifah in “Mad Money,” a heist comedy about three Federal Reserve workers who plot to steal discarded cash. Roger Ebert, rather than penning a traditional review, highlights a “found review” from a Rotten Tomatoes forum user, offering a unique perspective on the film. This simple yet insightful comment provides a starting point for Ebert’s deeper dive into the movie’s plot and characters.
A “Found Review” of “Mad Money”
Before delving into Ebert’s own thoughts, let’s examine the “found review” that caught his attention. Posted by a user named “islandhome,” the review’s uncapitalized, straightforward style offers a raw, immediate reaction:
hello sorry i slept when i got back
well it was kinda fun
it could never happen in the way it was portraid
but what ever its a movie
for the girls most will like it
and the men will not mind it much
i thought it was going to be kinda like how to beat the high cost of living
kinda the same them but not as much fun
ill give it a 4 0ut of 10
This simple commentary, with its casual tone and unpolished grammar, unintentionally captures the essence of the film’s lighthearted approach to a serious crime.
Ebert’s Analysis of “Mad Money”
Ebert notes the film’s surprising lack of suspense for a heist story. Diane Keaton, Queen Latifah, and Katie Holmes, playing the three protagonists, execute their plan with relative ease, focusing more on camaraderie than intricate strategizing. The film’s casual approach extends to its characters, including Ted Danson as Keaton’s downsized husband.
Keaton’s character, facing financial ruin, stumbles upon a security flaw at the Federal Reserve while working as a janitor. She devises a plan to smuggle out soon-to-be-shredded bills with the help of her colleagues, played by Latifah and Holmes. The stolen money, already destined for destruction, creates a seemingly “victimless” crime.
Ebert points out the film’s opening flash-forward, hinting at future complications despite the initial ease of the heist. He also mentions Ted Danson’s unusual hairstyle and the predictable portrayal of the outwitted security chief.
“Mad Money”: A Remake with Minor Tweaks
Ebert reveals that “Mad Money” is a remake of a 2001 British TV movie with a similar premise, featuring cleaners robbing the Bank of England. While some character names remain the same, others are altered, highlighting minor differences between the two versions.
Conclusion: A Lighthearted Heist with Mixed Appeal
Ultimately, Ebert echoes the sentiment of the “found review,” suggesting the film might appeal more to women than men. His own rating of 1.5 out of 4 stars reflects a lukewarm reception to this lighthearted heist comedy. While “Mad Money” might not offer groundbreaking thrills, the performances of Keaton, Latifah, and Holmes, combined with the film’s unique premise, provide a moderately entertaining experience.
