In the caper comedy “Lift,” F. Gary Gray attempts to elevate the genre by intertwining a heist with the now-deflated world of non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Unfortunately, the film’s comedic ambitions fall flat, hindered by an implausible premise and a lack of star power at its core.
The Ludicrous Concept of NFT Value:
“Lift” hinges on the improbable notion of an NFT increasing in value, a concept that may have seemed plausible in the past but feels out of touch in the current landscape. The script, penned by Daniel Kunka, fails to adapt to the evolving perception of NFTs, rendering the central MacGuffin less compelling.
Missteps in Casting and Chemistry:
Kevin Hart, cast as Cyrus Whitaker, the leader of a crew of thieves, struggles to convey the depth required for a heist film. Hart’s comedic prowess falls short in a role that demands gravitas and acting chops. Moreover, the lack of chemistry between Hart and co-star Gugu Mbatha-Raw, representing Interpol, weakens the film’s emotional resonance.
Thinly-Written Characters and Familiar Tropes:
Cyrus’ team, comprising master of disguise Denton (Vincent D’Onofrio), pilot Camila (Úrsula Corberó), and safecracker Magnus (Billy Magnussen), feels like a collection of clichéd roles rather than fully developed characters. Despite the actors’ efforts, the script fails to provide depth, reducing them to mere cogs in a poorly oiled machine.
Missed Opportunities for Parody:
At times, “Lift” hints at a potential parody in the vein of “Spy,” yet it fails to fully embrace the inherent silliness of its premise. Hart’s attempts at humor, coupled with the lack of self-awareness in the script, leave audiences wanting a more lighthearted approach to the genre.
Directorial Expertise Overshadowed:
F. Gary Gray, known for his directorial prowess in action sequences, struggles to salvage the film from its weak screenplay. Despite his background in music videos and successful films like “Friday” and “Straight Outta Compton,” Gray faces insurmountable challenges with a script that relies on clichés and uninspired dialogue.
Conclusion:
“Lift” may have intended to soar as a caper comedy, but its reliance on outdated NFT hype, miscasting, and a lackluster script hinder its ascent. While Gray’s directorial skills are evident, the film’s shortcomings magnify when viewed at home, making it a forgettable addition to the heist movie genre.
FAQs:
Q1: Is “Lift” worth watching despite its flaws?
A1: While some may find entertainment in its action sequences, the film’s weak script and miscasting make it a challenging recommendation for discerning viewers.
Q2: Does the film effectively satirize the world of NFTs?
A2: “Lift” falls short of delivering effective satire, missing the opportunity to capitalize on the absurdity of the NFT craze.
Q3: How does Kevin Hart’s performance compare to his previous roles?
A3: Hart’s comedic talents are overshadowed by the demands of his role, making his performance less impactful than in his usual comedic ventures.
Reporter
