“Ocean’s Eleven” kicks off the fun with a daring Las Vegas heist. The team doubles down and goes global to glamorous European locales in “Ocean’s Twelve.” And “Ocean’s Thirteen” has the group reuniting in Vegas for a dazzling scheme of payback against a backstabbing casino kingpin.
Steven Soderbergh is a filmmaker of remarkable versatility and talent. From his breakout low-budget Sundance hit, “Sex, Lies, and Videotape,” to his big-budget “Ocean’s” trilogy, he has consistently demonstrated an ability to navigate the transition from indie filmmaker to Hollywood director with ease. While many directors struggle to reclaim their indie roots after achieving mainstream success, Soderbergh has shown a unique capacity for evolving and adapting his approach to filmmaking.
A prime example of Soderbergh’s indie spirit is his willingness to experiment with cutting-edge technology. He shot his film “Full Frontal” on digital video using the Canon XL-1s in under a month and “Unsane” on an iPhone 7 Plus in 4K using the app FiLMiC Pro. Few Hollywood filmmakers can claim such a level of technical mastery and independence. These accomplishments serve as an inspiration to young indie filmmakers, demonstrating that with creativity and determination, it’s possible to make high-quality films outside the traditional studio system.
Soderbergh’s “Ocean’s” trilogy is a testament to his ability to balance artistic vision with commercial appeal. The first film, “Ocean’s Eleven,” is a masterclass in updating a classic heist story for the modern era. By assembling an all-star cast, including George Clooney, Matt Damon, and Brad Pitt, Soderbergh brought a new level of sophistication and glamour to the genre. The film’s clever script, combined with its innovative use of technology, made it a standout hit in 2001.
The sequel, “Ocean’s Twelve,” while entertaining, lacked the tight focus and clever twists that made the first film so memorable. The plot, which follows the team as they attempt to pay back the money they stole in the first film while also competing with a rival thief, feels overly convoluted. The film’s shift in tone, from the sleek, Vegas-set action of the first film to a more meandering, globetrotting adventure, also detracts from the overall experience. Despite a few memorable scenes and performances, “Ocean’s Twelve” feels like a misstep in the trilogy.
Fortunately, Soderbergh and his team regained their footing with the third and final installment, “Ocean’s Thirteen.” By returning the action to Las Vegas and refocusing on the core themes of loyalty and revenge, the film recaptures some of the magic of the original. While it may not quite live up to the standard set by “Ocean’s Eleven,” “Ocean’s Thirteen” is a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy, featuring a more complex and sophisticated plot than its predecessor.
The “Ocean’s” trilogy is a fascinating case study in the challenges and rewards of balancing indie sensibilities with mainstream ambitions. While not every film in the series is equally successful, together, they demonstrate Soderbergh’s remarkable range and adaptability as a filmmaker. For fans of the heist genre or anyone interested in the evolution of a talented director, the “Ocean’s” trilogy is certainly worth exploring.
It remains to be seen how the upcoming prequel, rumored to star Ryan Gosling and Margot Robbie as Danny Ocean’s parents, will fit into the series’ larger legacy. With Jay Roach reportedly directing, there’s reason to be optimistic that the film will offer a fresh take on the “Ocean’s” franchise while maintaining the spirit of the original.
Now available on 4K Ultra HD™ Disc with Collectible SteelBook Packaging and on Digital
