A crew of officers at an armored transport security firm risk their lives when they embark on the ultimate heist against their own company. Armed with a seemingly fool-proof plan, the men plan on making off with a fortune with harm to none. But when an unexpected witness interferes, the plan quickly unravels and all bets are off.
Armored is a 2009 American heist action thriller directed by Nimród Antal, featuring a cast that includes Matt Dillon, Jean Reno, Laurence Fishburne, and Columbus Short. The film centers on Ty Hackett (Columbus Short), a former soldier working as a security guard for Eagle Shield Security, a company specializing in armored transport. Ty is the legal guardian of his younger brother, Jimmy (Andre Kinney), following the death of their parents. Facing financial difficulties, Ty is approached by his godfather and co-worker, Mike Cochrane (Matt Dillon), who proposes a plan to steal $42 million from the Federal Reserve System during a routine bank run. Initially hesitant, Ty reluctantly agrees to participate, under the condition that no one is harmed. The heist takes a dark turn when unforeseen complications arise, leading to a deadly confrontation among the crew members. The film explores themes of morality, loyalty, and the consequences of crime.
Main Themes
- Morality and Consequences: Armored delves into the moral dilemmas faced by individuals when tempted by easy money. The film portrays the internal struggles of the characters as they grapple with the decision to commit a crime and the subsequent repercussions of their actions.
- Loyalty and Betrayal: The narrative examines the complexities of loyalty among friends and colleagues. As the heist unfolds, alliances are tested, and betrayals emerge, highlighting the fragile nature of trust within close-knit groups.
- Economic Desperation: The film portrays the characters’ financial struggles, emphasizing how economic hardship can drive individuals to make morally questionable decisions. Ty’s desperation to provide for his brother and prevent their home from being foreclosed is a central motivator in the plot.
- Justice and Redemption: Armored explores the theme of justice, both legal and moral. The characters’ actions lead to a pursuit of justice, and the film questions whether true redemption is achievable after committing serious crimes.
- Trust and Deception: The film highlights how deception can undermine trust, leading to chaos and violence. The characters’ attempts to deceive each other during the heist result in escalating tensions and tragic outcomes.
Impact of the Movie
Upon its release, Armored received mixed reviews from critics. The film holds a 42% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with the consensus stating: This B-grade thriller has a good cast and director but is undone by plot holes and messy conclusion.
A. O. Scott of The New York Times described the film as basic, brutal and sometimes clumsy, but far from dumb, and not bad at all.
Despite the mixed critical reception, Armored has garnered a following among fans of the heist genre, appreciated for its suspenseful narrative and strong performances.
7 Reasons to Watch Armored
- Engaging Heist Narrative: Armored offers a compelling heist story that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The intricate planning and execution of the robbery, combined with unexpected twists, make for an engaging viewing experience.
- Strong Ensemble Cast: The film features a talented cast, including Matt Dillon, Jean Reno, and Laurence Fishburne, who deliver solid performances that add depth to their respective characters. Their portrayals enhance the film’s emotional impact.
- Tension-Filled Atmosphere: The director, Nimród Antal, effectively builds tension throughout the film, creating a suspenseful atmosphere that keeps viewers invested in the characters’ fates. The confined setting of the abandoned warehouse amplifies the sense of claustrophobia and danger.
- Exploration of Moral Themes: Armored delves into complex moral questions, such as the justification of crime under financial pressure and the consequences of betrayal. These themes provoke thought and discussion, adding depth to the film beyond its action sequences.
- Realistic Depiction of Crime: The film presents a realistic portrayal of a heist gone wrong, focusing on the human elements and the psychological stress experienced by the characters. This authenticity makes the narrative more relatable and impactful.
- Fast-Paced Action: With a runtime of 88 minutes, Armored delivers a briskly paced thriller that maintains momentum without unnecessary filler. The concise storytelling ensures that the plot remains engaging from start to finish.
- Cinematic Direction: Nimród Antal’s direction brings a fresh perspective to the heist genre, infusing the film with a unique style and energy. His approach to storytelling and character development sets Armored apart from typical crime thrillers.
How Will You Feel After Watching Armored?
After watching Armored, you may experience a mix of suspense and contemplation. The film’s intense action sequences and moral dilemmas leave a lasting impression, prompting reflection on the characters’ choices and the consequences of their actions. The realistic portrayal of a heist gone awry may evoke a sense of unease, as you consider the fine line between right and wrong. Overall, Armored offers a thought-provoking and thrilling experience that lingers after the credits roll.
