Breaking the Bank (Movie)

Title — Breaking the Bank
Available on — History Vault
Production Country — United Kingdom
Release Date — 2014
Bank chairman Charles Bunbury – who knows next to nothing about banking – fights to save both his company and his marriage from disaster.

ðŸŠķ Story & Synopsis

“Breaking the Bank” is a 2014 American comedy film directed by Vadim Jean and written by Roger Devlin. The movie revolves around Sir Charles Bunbury, the inept chairman of London’s struggling bank Tuftons, which has a rich historical background tied to his wife’s family. Despite his lack of banking knowledge, Sir Charles finds himself in a precarious situation as aggressive US and Japanese investment banks target Tuftons, the 200-year-old family-run British bank.

With the bank’s future hanging in the balance, Sir Charles must muster all his wit and charm to navigate the cutthroat world of finance and save Tuftons from being taken over by foreign competitors. The film features a stellar cast including Annette Bening, Bill Nighy, Josh O’Connor, Aiysha Hart, Ryan McKen, Steven Pacey, and Nicholas Burns, who bring humor and heart to the tale of a man out of his depth but determined to protect his family’s legacy.

🧑 Cast & Crew

Kelsey Grammer, Tamsin Greig, John Michael Higgins, Mathew Horne, Pearce Quigley, Togo Igawa, Sonya Cassidy, Julie Dray, Danny Morgan, Andrew Sachs

Movie Casting:

Actor Role
Kelsey Grammer Charles Bunberry
John Michael Higgins Richard Grinding
Tamsin Greig Penelope
Sonya Cassidy Annabel
Pearce Quigley Oscar
Andrew Sachs Jenkins
Doon Mackichan Caroline
Julie Dray Sophie
Mathew Horne Nick
Dilyana Bouklieva Businesswoman
Richard Cordery Bournville
Matt Townsend Garden Party Guest
Lee Nicholas Harris Banker
Paul Blackwell Producer

💎 Reviews and feedback

Lights, camera, action! Get ready to dive into the world of financial comedy with “Breaking the Bank.” This film takes you on a rollercoaster ride through the ups and downs of a struggling British bank facing the ruthless competition from American and Japanese investment giants.

Imagine a blend of humor and economics, where the bumbling chairman, Sir Charles, played by the talented Kelsey Grammer, leads the charge in a battle to save his family-run bank. Think of it as “The Big Short” meets “The Office,” with a sprinkle of British charm and wit.

Plot and Themes:
“Breaking the Bank” offers a quirky take on the financial world, mixing in elements of farce and satire. The plot revolves around the comedic misadventures of Sir Charles as he navigates through financial crises and eccentric characters. The film touches on themes of family legacy, corporate greed, and the clash between traditional values and modern capitalism.

Binge-watching Tip: Keep an eye out for subtle references to classic British comedies for an extra layer of entertainment.

Acting and Characters:
Kelsey Grammer shines as Sir Charles, perfectly capturing the essence of a well-meaning yet inept chairman. His chemistry with Tamsin Greig’s Penelope adds depth to their on-screen relationship, creating moments that are both heartwarming and hilarious. The supporting cast delivers solid performances, adding color to the ensemble.

Did You Know: Kelsey Grammer’s British accent in the film adds an extra layer of authenticity to his character, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Direction and Cinematography:
The direction keeps the pace lively and engaging, balancing comedic moments with emotional beats effectively. The cinematography captures the grandeur of London alongside intimate moments within the bank offices. The visual style complements the tone of the film, enhancing its overall appeal.

Fun Fact: Keep an eye out for clever visual gags that add an extra layer of humor to certain scenes.

Production Design and Special Effects:
The production design creates a vibrant backdrop for the story, blending traditional British aesthetics with modern banking settings. From opulent boardrooms to chaotic trading floors, each setting is meticulously designed to reflect the contrasting worlds within the film. While not heavy on special effects, subtle touches enhance key moments in a whimsical manner.

Binge-watching Tip: Pay attention to details in set design for hidden Easter eggs that add depth to each scene.

Editing and Pace:
The editing keeps the narrative tight and focused, ensuring that each scene serves a purpose in advancing the story. The pacing strikes a balance between comedic timing and dramatic tension, keeping viewers invested throughout. Transitions between scenes are seamless, maintaining momentum without feeling rushed.

Question for You: How do you think different editing choices could have influenced your viewing experience?

Dialogues and Score:
The dialogues are sharp and witty, delivering punchlines with impeccable timing. Each character’s unique voice shines through in their interactions, adding layers to their personalities. The score complements both comedic moments and emotional beats effectively, enhancing key scenes without overpowering them.

Comparison Suggestion: If you enjoyed films like “The Wolf of Wall Street” or “Trading Places,” you might appreciate the blend of finance-themed comedy in “Breaking the Bank.”

In conclusion, “Breaking the Bank” offers a delightful escape into a world where finance meets comedy in unexpected ways. With stellar performances from Kelsey Grammer and a talented ensemble cast, this film delivers laughs alongside poignant reflections on corporate culture.

So grab your popcorn, settle in for a wild ride through financial chaos with Sir Charles and company! I rate “Breaking The Bank” 7/10 for its charming humor and entertaining storyline that will leave you smiling long after the credits roll.

Pros Cons
Nicely paced comedy Flat farce with cheap gags
Well-acted performances Predictable script
Good cast led by Kelsey Grammer Doesn’t require actors to stretch their talents
Offers moral lessons about financial crisis Unbelievable and ethically questionable plot

Feedback

  • Breaking the Bank - Wikipedia

    This

    article needs a plot summary.(November 2021)

    Breaking the Bankis a 2014 British comedy film directed by Vadim Jean and starring Kelsey Grammer.

    Breaking the Bank
    Directed by Vadim Jean
    Written by Roger Devlin
    Produced by Jake Seal
    Starring Kelsey Grammer
    Cinematography Oliver Curtis
    Edited by Jason Gourson
    Music by David Buckley

    Productioncompany

    Black Hangar Studios

    Release date

  • Breaking the Bank (2014) - IMDb

    SPONSOREDWith ruthless US and Japanese investment banks circling Tuftons, a struggling 200-year-old family-run British bank, can its bumbling, incompetent chairman, Sir Charles Bunbury, fend off the … Read allWith ruthless US and Japanese investment banks circling Tuftons, a struggling 200-year-old family-run British bank, can its bumbling, incompetent chairman, Sir Charles Bunbury, fend off the onslaught and save the bank?With ruthless US and Japanese investment banks circling Tuftons, a struggling 200-year-old family-run British bank, can its bumbling, incompetent chairman, Sir Charles Bunbury, fend off the onslaught and save the bank?

  • Breaking the Bank | Rotten Tomatoes

    Breaking the BankWhere to WatchBreaking the Bank

    Rent Breaking the Bank on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, or buy it on Fandango at Home, Prime Video.

    Critics ReviewsAudience ReviewsCast & Crew

    Vadim JeanDirectorKelsey GrammerCharlesTamsin GreigPenelopeJohn Michael HigginsRichard GrindingSonya CassidyAnnabelMathew HorneNick

  • Breaking the Bank - Trailer - YouTube

⚠ïļ Explanation (Spoiler)

In the movie “Breaking,” the ending takes a heartbreaking turn for Brian, the former Marine Corps veteran who attempts to rob a bank to address the financial struggles he faces due to a VA fraud against him. Despite his intentions, Brian’s plan does not work out in his favor.

The film portrays Brian’s desperation as he finds himself in dire financial stress and unable to get assistance from the Veterans Administration. His love for his daughter Kiah is evident, even though he is separated from her mother, Cassandra. Brian’s inability to fulfill his daughter’s wish for a pet puppy due to financial constraints showcases the depth of his struggles.

Brian’s decision to rob the bank unfolds as he enters a Wells Fargo branch with a device in his backpack, claiming to have a bomb and demanding the police be called. His only request is for the Veterans Administration to pay him the money they owe him, emphasizing his desperation and the extreme lengths he is willing to go to for financial relief.

Despite Brian’s insistence that he has no intention of harming anyone, his actions lead to a tense situation where the bank manager evacuates the branch to ensure the safety of customers and employees. The film builds suspense as Brian’s motivations become clearer, highlighting the complexities of his character and the underlying issues he is grappling with.

As the narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that Brian’s plan to rob the bank is not a straightforward heist for monetary gain. Instead, it is a cry for help and a plea for justice as he seeks to receive his rightful dues from the government.

John Boyega’s portrayal of Brian is commendable, capturing the emotional depth and turmoil of a man pushed to extreme measures by circumstances beyond his control. The film’s storytelling and Boyega’s performance combine to create a poignant and thought-provoking narrative that resonates with the audience.

Ultimately, the ending of “Breaking” sees Brian’s plan unravel in a tragic manner. Despite his intentions, the outcome is not in his favor, underscoring the harsh realities faced by individuals caught in bureaucratic and financial struggles. The film leaves a lasting impact, prompting viewers to reflect on the systemic issues that lead to such desperate actions and the human toll of societal neglect.

👊 Parents Guide & Age Rating

TV-PG

Age Rating:

Breaking the Bank (2014) is not rated by the Motion Picture Association. However, based on the content of the movie, it would likely be suitable for viewers aged 12 and above.

Parental Guide:

Parents should be aware that Breaking the Bank contains some elements that may not be suitable for younger audiences:

  • Violence: The movie includes moments of peril and weapons-based violence, although it is not graphic or intense.
  • Profanity: There may be some mild language and instances of verbal aggression.
  • Themes: The film revolves around the struggle of a family-run bank facing financial crisis and the comedic attempts to save it.
  • Humor: The movie features a mix of American and English humor, which may not appeal to all viewers.

Overall, Breaking the Bank is a lighthearted comedy with some thematic elements that may require parental guidance for younger viewers.

📚 Streaming and where to watch

streaming service extra information
History Vault You can watch ‘Breaking the Bank’ on History Vault with a subscription for $4.99 per month after a 7-Day Free Trial.
Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu You can buy or rent ‘Breaking the Bank’ for as low as $3.99 to rent or $14.99 to buy on various platforms like Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Vudu.

❝ Quotes and Cult

  • With ruthless US and Japanese investment banks circling Tuftons, a struggling 200-year-old family-run British bank, can its bumbling, incompetent chairman, Sir Charles Bunbury, fend off the onslaught and save the bank?
  • It's better to break a man's leg than his heart.
    Gary Stevens
  • The world has always been broken. That's why we need good cops.
    Chief Bogo
  • No more promises were made so none could be broken.
    Laura Linney
  • I don't have any rules 'cause I would always be breaking them so it would be a waste of time.
    Iris Apfel
  • It's kind of fun, isn't it? Breaking the rules.
    Emma Watson
  • My father told me if I was hard enough, I wouldn't break. He lied. Everything breaks.
    Ryan Gosling
  • The neck's broken. The brain is useless. We must find another brain.
    Colin Clive
  • The only way you can break the curse is by killing the one who started it all and that's me. I'm not ready to die just yet.
    Joshua Carter Jackson
  • Don't crush ice! Don't crush anything! It's a mistake! It doesn't belong to us!
  • Now the monitor is broken. It's dead. It's not temporarily transitioned to another state of entropy, it's dead. Right. Now is she alive or is she dead?
  • We already have paradise back in Great Valley. You no need to fix, just got to not break.
  • Not anymore it isn't.
  • Sometimes you gotta break the rules. You never know when you're gonna get something inspired.
    Marc Blucas
  • If you want to chase your dreams, sometimes you gotta break the rules, right?
    James Kirk
  • There are 215 bones in the human body. That's one.
  • You don't fix things, Jack. You break things. Remember?
    Miranda Richardson
  • If it bends, it's funny. If it breaks, it isn't.
    Alan Alda

ðŸĪ–Breaking the Bank Reddit Talks

Breaking the Bank Movie Discussions on Reddit

Plot and Storyline:

  • “Breaking the Bank” is a 2022 American thriller drama film starring John Boyega as a Marine Corps veteran who robs a bank due to financial troubles.
  • The film explores themes of desperation, the struggles of veterans, and the consequences of one’s actions.

Reviews and Opinions:

  • Some viewers praised the film’s realistic portrayal of the main character’s struggles and the tense, suspenseful atmosphere.
  • Others criticized the film’s pacing, lack of character development, and predictable plot.

Comparisons to Other Films:

  • “Breaking the Bank” has been compared to other bank robbery films such as “The Bank Job” and “Inside Man.”
  • It shares similarities in terms of its focus on the planning and execution of a bank heist, as well as the aftermath and consequences for the perpetrators.

Social Issues and Themes:

  • The film raises important questions about the treatment of veterans and the struggles they face upon returning home.
  • It also highlights the desperation that can drive individuals to commit crimes in order to survive.

Character Analysis:

  • John Boyega’s performance as Brian Brown-Easley, the Marine Corps veteran who robs the bank, has been widely praised.
  • Viewers empathized with his character’s struggles and his desire to provide for his family.

Technical Aspects:

  • The film’s cinematography and editing contribute to its suspenseful atmosphere and immersive storytelling.
  • The use of handheld cameras and close-up shots adds a sense of immediacy and realism to the action sequences.

Controversies and Criticisms:

  • Some viewers have criticized the film for its portrayal of law enforcement and the military.
  • They argue that the film presents a biased and inaccurate view of these institutions.

Other Discussions:

  • The film’s title, “Breaking the Bank,” has also sparked discussions on Reddit about the phrase’s meaning and its implications in different contexts.
  • Users have shared their own experiences with financial struggles and the desperation that can drive people to take extreme measures.

Top discussions

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the movie Breaking the Bank about?

Breaking the Bank (2014) follows the story of a struggling 200-year-old family-run British bank called Tuftons. With ruthless US and Japanese investment banks circling, the incompetent chairman, Sir Charles Bunbury, attempts to save the bank amidst comedic chaos.

Where was Breaking the Bank filmed?

Breaking the Bank was filmed in London, with principal photography beginning in April 2014. The movie captures the farcical journey of Sir Charles Bunbury and the misadventures surrounding the historic-yet-struggling Tuftons bank.

What is the movie Breaking the Bank review?

Breaking the Bank is a light-hearted financial comedy featuring a good cast with Kelsey Grammer in the lead role. The movie offers humor and entertainment as it showcases the challenges faced by a traditional British bank in the modern financial world.

Who are the main cast members of Breaking the Bank?

The main cast members of Breaking the Bank (2014) include Kelsey Grammer as Charles, Tamsin Greig as Penelope, John Michael Higgins as Richard Grinding, Sonya Cassidy as Annabel, and more. The actors portray characters entangled in the comedic turmoil of the struggling bank’s predicament.

🔀 Recommended Movie and TV Show

List of similar movies to “Breaking the Bank Movie”:

  1. Inside Man: A thriller starring Denzel Washington and Clive Owen, involving a bank heist with unexpected twists.
  2. The Bank Job: A British crime film based on a true story, focusing on a bank robbery and its aftermath.
  3. Heat: A classic bank heist film known for its intense action sequences and intricate plot.
  4. Den of Thieves: A modern heist movie involving a group of bank robbers planning a major heist.
  5. Now You See Me: A thriller featuring magicians who pull off bank heists during their performances.
  6. Point Break: A film involving a group of surfers who also happen to be bank robbers.
  7. The Town: A crime thriller centered around a group of bank robbers and their heists.
  8. Out of Sight: A heist film with a romantic twist, involving a bank robbery and a blossoming romance.
  9. Public Enemies: A biographical crime film focusing on the infamous bank robber John Dillinger.
  10. Dog Day Afternoon: A classic based on a true bank robbery story, showcasing the chaos of a failed heist.

Wallpapers & Media

ðŸ”Ĩ Audience Trends

Stats and Audience chart

âœĻ Discover more titles

✍ïļ Contribute to this page