Ocean’s Eleven (2001)

Directed by: Steven Soderbergh | 112 minutes | thriller, comedy, crime | Actors: George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Andy Garcia, Julia Roberts, Bernie Mac, Elliott Gould, Casey Affleck, Scott Caan, Shaobo Qin, Carl Reiner, Don Cheadle, Holly Marie Combs

‘Ocean’s Eleven’ is a remake of the 1960 film of the same name. Just like in 1960, the director now has an impressive star cast at his disposal in 2001. At the time it was Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr., who had to pull the cart, now mainly George Clooney and Brad Pitt are the eye-catchers. These stars have to get the audience excited for the film.

The story itself is not interesting, but of course the renowned names create high expectations. Fortunately, the expectations are fulfilled. The actors, who by the way play for a pittance of their usual salary, are clearly looking forward to it. Julia Roberts cashed no less than $20.00, which was paid by George Clooney out of his own pocket. The fun splashes off the canvas.

The absolute star is George Clooney, who clearly knows how to inspire the other actors with his acting. Unfortunately Andy Garcia is a bit out of tune. He doesn’t come across as mean enough as the “bad guy”, Terry Benedict, but that shouldn’t spoil the fun. In addition to Andy Garcia, the makers also had Warren Beatty, Michael Douglas or Ralph Fiennes in mind for the role of Terry Benedict. There were several well-known stars, such as Luke and Owen Wilson, who fell by the wayside due to their commitments with ‘The Royal Tenenbaums’. Originally, Matt Damon was also not supposed to participate. His role would be played by Mark Wahlberg. Fortunately, the viewer does not notice the lack of all those actors at all.

In addition, the lack of story is compensated by the razor-sharp dialogues and the film looks flashy due to swinging camera work under the direction of Steven Soderbergh. The movie is over before you know it and leaves a crushing impression. It almost goes without saying that after the success of the film, the makers are willing to take a chance with a second part, which saw the light of day in 2004.