🪶 Story & Synopsis
In the gritty L.A crime saga “Den of Thieves,” directed by Christian Gudegast, an elite unit of the LA County Sheriff’s Department and the state’s most successful bank robbery crew clash as the outlaws plan a seemingly impossible heist on the Federal Reserve Bank of downtown Los Angeles.
The movie kicks off in Los Angeles, 2018, where a team of robbers led by Ray Merrimen (Pablo Schreiber) make a violent armed attack and hijack an armored truck. A security guard’s accidental coffee spill triggers a shootout with the police, leading to Merrimen and his crew escaping with the empty armored truck. Detective Nick “Big Nick” O’Brien (Gerard Butler) investigates the crime scene, having monitored Merrimen and his crew for a while.
Suspecting a local bartender named Donnie for involvement, Nick kidnaps him for interrogation. Donnie reveals Merrimen’s plan to rob the Federal Reserve by covertly removing about $30 million in old bills before they are shredded. Merrimen has Donnie gain access to the Federal Reserve by posing as a Chinese food deliveryman and stashing an extra bag of food in the Bank’s bathroom ceiling for the heist.
Meanwhile, Nick’s personal life is in turmoil as his wife Debbie (Dawn Olivieri) discovers his infidelity, leading to their separation. As Nick crosses paths with Donnie, Merrimen, and his crew, tensions rise. At Merrimen’s hideout, Donnie undergoes a rough interrogation by Levi (Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson) to ensure he hasn’t leaked any information about the heist. Levi’s intimidating behavior extends to his daughter’s date, introducing the boy to Merrimen and the crew to maintain order.
As the heist date approaches, the intricate dynamics between the law enforcement and the criminals intensify. With personal vendettas, betrayals, and high-stakes action, “Den of Thieves” delves into the intersecting lives of those involved in the daring plot to rob the Federal Reserve Bank, culminating in a gripping showdown where loyalties are tested, and alliances are shattered.
🧑 Cast & Crew
Gerard Butler, Pablo Schreiber, O’Shea Jackson Jr., 50 Cent, Meadow Williams, Maurice Compte, Brian Van Holt, Evan Jones, Mo McRae, Kaiwi Lyman
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Gerard Butler | ‘Big Nick’ O’Brien |
| O’Shea Jackson Jr. | Donnie Wilson |
| 50 Cent | Enson Levoux |
| Pablo Schreiber | Ray Merrimen |
| Mo McRae | Gus Henderson |
| Evan Jones | Not specified |
| Dawn Olivieri | Debbie O’Brien |
| Max Holloway | Not specified |
💬 Reviews and feedback
Imagine a world where Gerard Butler isn’t just kicking butt but also outsmarting the bad guys in a game of cops and robbers. Welcome to “Den of Thieves,” where the stakes are high, the tension is palpable, and the twists keep you on the edge of your seat.
In this crime-caper extravaganza, we’re thrown into a cat-and-mouse chase between Los Angeles County Sheriff “Big Nick” O’Brien and his team, and the cunning criminal mastermind Ray Merrimen. Think of it as a modern-day showdown between the good, the bad, and the oh-so-charmingly rugged.
Now, before you write this off as just another heist movie with incoherent plotting and clichés galore, hear me out. Yes, there are moments where you might roll your eyes at familiar tropes, but amidst all that noise, there’s a refreshing take on the genre that’s bound to delight even the most die-hard Gerard Butler fans.
Plot Twists Galore
What sets “Den of Thieves” apart is its clever use of plot twists. Just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, BAM! The rug is pulled out from under your feet. From decoy bank robberies to unexpected alliances, every turn keeps you guessing and second-guessing your predictions.
One standout twist involves sending Big Nick and his team on a wild goose chase while Merrimen’s crew pulls off the real heist right under their noses. The intricate planning and execution make for an exhilarating watch that keeps you hooked till the very end.
Action-Packed Performances
Let’s talk about the cast because boy, do they deliver! Gerard Butler as Big Nick brings his trademark intensity to the role, balancing toughness with a hint of vulnerability that makes his character more than just a typical tough guy cop.
Butler’s chemistry with Pablo Schreiber, who plays Ray Merrimen, adds another layer of complexity to their cat-and-mouse dynamic. Schreiber’s portrayal of the cool-headed mastermind is chillingly convincing, making him a worthy adversary for Butler’s relentless pursuit.
Cinematic Brilliance
Visually stunning and expertly shot, “Den of Thieves” immerses you in its gritty world of crime and deception. The cinematography captures the pulse-pounding action sequences with precision, keeping you at the edge of your seat during every heist and shootout.
The production design deserves a special mention for creating an authentic backdrop that feels like a character in itself. From dimly lit warehouses to bustling city streets, each setting adds to the atmosphere of suspense and danger that permeates every scene.
Binge-Watching Tips:
- Keep an eye out for subtle clues early on—they might just hold the key to unraveling later twists!
- If you’re a fan of heist movies like “Heat,” buckle up for a wild ride with “Den of Thieves.”
- Watch with friends so you can debate who outsmarted whom by the end credits!
So, is “Den of Thieves” worth your time? Absolutely! While it may have echoes of familiar crime capers, its stellar performances, gripping plot twists, and sleek visuals make it a standout in its own right.
Ratings: 8/10
In conclusion: Get ready for heart-pounding action, mind-bending twists, and Gerard Butler at his best in “Den of Thieves.” It’s a rollercoaster ride through LA’s underworld that will leave you craving more!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Refreshing take on the genre | Incoherent plotting |
| Entertaining crime film | Crime-caper clichés |
| Based on true stories | Undercooked ideas |
| Great performances by Gerard Butler | Mixed reviews from critics |
| Engaging heist sequences | Missed potential |
| Intense and gritty atmosphere | Laborious slog |
Feedback
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Den of Thieves (film) - Wikipedia
Den of Thieves(released in some countries as) is a 2018 American heist action crime drama film written, directed, and produced by Christian Gudegast. It stars Gerard Butler, Pablo Schreiber, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, O’Shea Jackson Jr., Evan Jones, Dawn Olivieri, Mo McRae, and Max Holloway. In the film, a Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department clique look to stop a gang of thieves consisting of ex-MARSOC Marines that is planning to rob the Federal Reserve in Los Angeles.
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Den of Thieves (2018) - IMDb
An elite unit of the LA County Sheriff’s Dept. and the state’s most successful bank robbery crew clash as the outlaws plan a seemingly impossible heist on the Federal Reserve Bank.An elite unit of the LA County Sheriff’s Dept. and the state’s most successful bank robbery crew clash as the outlaws plan a seemingly impossible heist on the Federal Reserve Bank.An elite unit of the LA County Sheriff’s Dept. and the state’s most successful bank robbery crew clash as the outlaws plan a seemingly impossible heist on the Federal Reserve Bank.
- Awards
- 1 nomination
SPONSORED50 Cent
- Awards
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Den of Thieves | Rotten Tomatoes
Den of Thievespays energetic homage to classic heist thrillers of the past; unfortunately, it never comes close to living up to its obvious inspirations.
Den of ThievesWhere to WatchDen of Thieves
Rent Den of Thieves on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV, or buy it on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV.
What to KnowCritics ReviewsAudience ReviewsMy RatingCast & Crew
Christian GudegastDirectorGerard Butler”Big Nick” O’BrienPablo SchreiberRay MerrimenO’Shea Jackson Jr.Donnie Wilson50 CentEnson LevouxMeadow WilliamsHolly
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Den of Thieves movie review & film summary (2018) | Roger Ebert
That’s one of the things that Gerard Butler’s “Big” Nick Davis, the major crimes cop on the scene, has to figure out. He runs a half-rogue crew he calls “The Regulators,” and they’re not above kidnapping and torturing suspected perps to get their men. Butler, sporting a slightly unruly beard, plays the role as if he’s imitating Mel Gibson during his drunk driving arrest. He’s crude, boorish, and cavalier. Genre mavens will see where Gudegast, who wrote Butler’s last film, “London Has Fallen” and is making his feature directorial debut here, is pulling his threads from. The Neal/Vincent dynamic of “Heat” isn’t duplicated here; it’s more like the Chance/Masters dynamic in “To Live And Die In L.A.,” in which cop and criminal dealt in the same kind of corruption but the criminal was ultimately the more ethically pure of the two. Thing is, though, “Den of Thieves” never really gets that deep, and turns out not to be all that terribly serious a movie anyway. The various character dynamics are almost a smokescreen for a convoluted heist targeting the only bank in Los Angeles that has never been robbed: the branch of the Federal Reserve where, among other things, old money is destroyed around the same time as the serial numbers attached to it are erased.
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Den of Thieves Official Trailer #1 (2018) 50 Cent, Gerard ... - YouTube
⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)
In the movie “Den of Thieves,” the ending provides a thrilling and unexpected twist that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats. The story revolves around a gang of criminals led by Merrimen, played by Pablo Schreiber, who are planning a heist on the LA branch of the Federal Reserve to steal $30 million in untraceable money. On the other side, Detective Nick O’Brien, portrayed by Gerard Butler, is determined to stop them but always seems to be one step behind.
As the movie progresses, the audience is led to believe that Merrimen’s gang is executing the heist at the Federal Reserve as planned. However, in a clever turn of events, it is revealed that the heist at the Federal Reserve was just a diversion. The gang actually pulls off the heist at a small savings and loan bank nearby, using the distraction to sneak into the Federal Reserve disguised as security guards with the stolen money from their initial robbery.
Things take a dramatic turn when Detective O’Brien and his team catch on to the gang’s true plan. They intercept Donnie, played by O’Shea Jackson Jr., who was a part of the gang and was crucial in executing the heist. Donnie eventually leads O’Brien to Merrimen and the rest of the crew, resulting in a high-stakes chase through LA traffic. A firefight erupts, leading to the deaths of Merrimen and his team.
However, the real shock comes when O’Brien discovers that the bags of money the gang was escaping with were filled with already shredded cash, rendering it worthless. The true mastermind behind the heist is revealed to be Donnie, who orchestrated the entire plan and used Merrimen as a pawn to take the fall while he made off with the actual haul of cash. Donnie’s cunning and calculated betrayal leave both the characters in the movie and the audience stunned.
The final scenes of the movie see O’Brien coming to terms with the reality of Donnie’s deception as he returns to the bar where Donnie works. Through a series of flashbacks, the audience witnesses how Donnie meticulously planned and executed the heist, manipulating everyone around him to achieve his ultimate goal.
The ending of “Den of Thieves” is a testament to the intricate storytelling and clever plot twists that keep viewers engaged until the very last moment. It showcases the fine line between criminals and law enforcement, blurring the boundaries of right and wrong in a thrilling and captivating manner.
👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating
R
Age Rating:
This movie is rated R for violence, language, and some sexuality/nudity.
Parental Guide:
Violence & Scariness:
- Lots of guns and shooting with characters being shot and sustaining bloody wounds.
- Use of a taser, sleeper hold, beatings, and punching.
- Main character argues/fights with his wife.
- Main character bullies and intimidates people.
Sex, Romance & Nudity:
- Brief female nudity with a naked woman seen mostly from the back.
- Suggested sexual situations.
- Women appearing as strippers in revealing clothing.
- Strong sexual innuendo.
Language:
- Near-constant use of strong language including “f–k,” “motherf—-r,” “s–t,” “t-ts,” “p—y,” and more.
Drinking, Drugs & Smoking:
- Main character is sometimes hung over and drinks frequently.
- Cigarette smoking and social drinking shown.
Parents need to be aware that this movie contains intense violence, strong language, and some sexual content, making it suitable for mature audiences only.
📺 Streaming and where to watch
| streaming service | extra information |
|---|---|
| Prime Video | You can watch Den of Thieves on Prime Video. |
| MGM Plus Amazon Channel | You can watch Den of Thieves on MGM Plus Amazon Channel. |
| TNT | You can watch Den of Thieves on TNT. |
| TBS | You can watch Den of Thieves on TBS. |
| tru TV | You can watch Den of Thieves on tru TV. |
❝ Quotes and Cult
I ain't cuffin' up
That's ok. I don't bring my cuffs anyway.
Hey, pay attention. This is yours. Most important thing, keep your finger off the trigger at all times unless you need to shoot somebody. When the happens, hold it until you run dry.
Keep your eyes open. Every cop in the country is going to be looking for us.
Big Nick, original gangsta cop in the flesh.
Four dead and six on the way to hospital.
I take it he’s a bad guy.
I’m going to make you a deal, give me the names of all the guys who got away and I’ll get you a medic.
I ain’t no snitch.
You know what this is.
It’s a decoy. We’re dealing with a different animal here, boys.
We got a problem. It’s a major crime. Get to know your enemy, boys. Every big-time crew has been busted, these are the buys who took them down.
Gangbangers these are not. The National Bank Hollywood jobs. We nail these guys, we solve all these cases. This is the crew.
Whoever it is, they’re addicted to heists. Sooner or later they’ll need their fix.
Anybody moves you shoot them. Do you understand?
You okay?
Change of plans, we’re trading up.
The only bank that’s never been robbed. That’s why we’re going to rob it.
The Federal Reserve, it’s like Fort Knox. At any one time there’s anywhere between five hundred and eight hundred billion dollars in there. Every millimeter either covered by cameras, sensor and motion detectors. Stand across the street and stare at the building for two minutes they got security on your ass. The only bank that’s never been robbed, that’s why we’re going to rob it.
At the Federal Reserve billions of dollars are taken out of circulation. If we can break in and steal those old bills before they’re destroyed, we got our hands on money that’s untraceable.
We got to move.
Do you know what this means? It means I am a member of a gang, only we have badges, which means you are done.
Do we look like the type that’ll arrest you?
You’re not the bad guys. We are.
Yeah, people with things to hide never have much to say.
Let’s pay them a visit.
They’re casing the joint from the inside. We’re going baking.
I’m going to let you know now, better wear your vest.
The advised suspects wear body armor, head shots only.
On my signal, let’s go!
You watching?
Yep. How the hell are you going to get out of this?
I ain’t cuffing up.
It’s okay. I didn’t bring my cuffs anyway.
🤖Den of Thieves Reddit Talks
Den of Thieves is a 2018 heist film that follows a crew of bank robbers as they attempt to pull off a daring heist on the Federal Reserve Bank of Los Angeles. The film stars Gerard Butler as Nick “Big Nick” O’Brien, the leader of the robbers, and Pablo Schreiber as Ray Merrimen, the head of the LAPD’s Major Crimes Division who is tasked with stopping them.
The film has received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its action sequences and performances, while others criticizing its unoriginal plot and lack of character development. However, the film has been a box office success, grossing over $80 million worldwide.
On Reddit, the film has been the subject of much discussion, with users debating its merits and comparing it to other heist films such as Heat and The Town. Some users have praised the film’s action sequences, calling them “intense” and “heart-pounding.” Others have praised the performances of Butler and Schreiber, saying that they bring a lot of charisma and intensity to their roles.
However, some users have criticized the film’s plot, saying that it is “unoriginal” and “predictable.” Others have criticized the film’s lack of character development, saying that the characters are not well-developed and that their motivations are not clear.
Overall, the film has been met with mixed reactions on Reddit. Some users have praised its action sequences and performances, while others have criticized its unoriginal plot and lack of character development.
Here are some of the specific topics that have been discussed on Reddit:
- The film’s action sequences
- The performances of Butler and Schreiber
- The film’s plot
- The film’s lack of character development
- Comparisons to other heist films such as Heat and The Town
Overall, the film has been a popular topic of discussion on Reddit, with users debating its merits and comparing it to other heist films.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/7ruq9c/wheres_the_den_of_thieves_discussion_i_want_to/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/ujpg3k/den_of_thieves_2018/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/pk77lq/den_of_thieves_is_fantastic_and_a_worthy/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/moviecritic/comments/16ow5tt/den_of_thieves_2018/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/lb9f7l/den_of_thieves2018_rocks/
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the twist in Den of Thieves?
Sending Big Nick and his team to a supposed bank robbery which turns out to be a decoy, Merrimen’s crew execute the real heist, and use Donnie as a delivery driver, so he can gain access to the Reserve building, and get the money out while Merrimen and his trusted enforcer, Enson (50 Cent), use the stolen armored truck.
Was Den of Thieves a true story?
That whole crew and the movie’s law enforcement as well, Big Nick’s crew. All the heists were based on actual cases. It’s an amalgam of true stories lumped together. The thieves are based on a crew that were never caught called The Hole in the Ground Gang.
What happened in the movie Den of Thieves?
The plan appears to work, but Big Nick realizes the play and intercepts Donnie when he gets out. Donnie is beaten into revealing the route Merrimen is using to escape. Merrimen and Enson are hunted down, resulting in a gunfight that leaves Merrimen and many of his crew dead.
What happened to the money in Den of Thieves?
Cornered, Merrimen raises his empty gun, forcing Nick to fatally shoot him. Instead of the money, only bags of shredded paper are found in Merrimen’s vehicle, and the FBI inform Nick that all currency is accounted for at the Federal Reserve while Donnie has escaped.
🔀 Recommended Movie and TV Show
- Wrath of Man: A mysterious and skilled cash truck driver surprises his coworkers with his abilities during a heist.
- Triple 9: A group of corrupt cops and criminals plan the murder of a police officer to pull off a major heist.
- Inside Man: An unconventional heist movie involving a bank robbery and a tense hostage situation.
- Hell or High Water: Two brothers carry out a series of bank robberies to save their family ranch.
- Baby Driver: A young getaway driver finds himself in trouble when a heist goes wrong.
- Ocean’s Eleven: A group of con artists plan to rob three Las Vegas casinos simultaneously.
- The Town: A bank robber struggles with the consequences of his criminal lifestyle while planning his next heist.
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🔥 Audience Trends
