Review: ‘Logan Lucky’ Is Soderbergh’s Redneck ‘Ocean’s Eleven’

“Logan Lucky” is the redneck heist movie that you must see!

“Logan Lucky” tells the story of two brothers Jimmy Logan (Channing Tatum) and Clyde Logan (Adam Driver) that plan to pull of a heist during a NASCAR race. Along the way they recruit the help of other small town folk that provide their own talents in an attempt to accomplish the job.

Cinematics (Cinematography, Acting, Plot, etc.) – 4

Steven Soderbergh puts together an A-list cast whom establish quirky characters accompanied by a progressively enumerated story. As with Soderbergh’s other popular heist film “Ocean’s Eleven,” the extensive cast does not dilute the experience. Every character is interdependent upon one another while still maintaining their individuality. Jimmy Logan (Channing Tatum) is the catalyst with each of the other characters being a component that drives consistent momentum.

As a character driven film, the performances are vital and every role is at the very least, commendable. Channing Tatum continues to flourish as a credible actor evolving from his “face actor” days. Jimmy isn’t as dynamic or quirky as the rest of the cast, but Tatum sells the role. The most charismatic performances are held by Adam Driver (Clyde Logan) and Daniel Craig (Joe Bang). Driver’s vocal diction and cadence perpetuates the characteristics of small town simpleton. He speaks in a slow, drawn out demeanor and his actions correlate with that tempo. Daniel Craig takes his character to the other end of the spectrum but on the same plane. Both energetic and eccentric, Joe Bang turns up the volume of the film with his personality. It’s hard to believe that this is the same person we know as James Bond. Other characters have more minute parts but have enough screen time for an impact through either providing key laughs or being a surprise cameo role in the film.

As the characters are developed the plot moves much like a rollercoaster in a more pragmatic fashion. The uphill climb builds anticipation for what’s coming, then there’s a brief pause at the top, followed by a downhill explanatory rush. This is essentially a redneck version of “Ocean’s Eleven.” If you pay attention, you may hear a jab at this within “Logan Lucky” as well.

Entertainment Value – 4

The pacing was on the slower side but in the realm of entertainment, it’s the lasting appeal that makes “Logan Lucky” shine. There’s a methodical flow to setting up this caper which justifies the moments of stagnation due to planning. I personally became so engaged in the characters and story progression that things rarely felt tedious. But for those that may not experience that same engagement, their views may be different.

As a heist film, the key to success is the creativity of the plan and its execution. “Logan Lucky” builds an elaborate plan stemming from unconventional origins that establishes a simplistic but realistic approach supplemented by an element of surprise. If you missed any details or had any questions, by the film’s close there is an explanatory portion that left me feeling fulfilled.

Re-Watchability – 3.5

“Logan Lucky” is fulfilling fun. The extensive cast and easy to follow plot can be relived numerous times with the film having strong potential for being a necessity to own. I probably would not make a second trip to the theater to see this but personally, I will be adding this film to my movie collection.