The Instigators (2025)

Title: The Instigators
Director: Doug Liman
Writers: Casey Affleck & Chuck Maclean
Genre: Heist, Crime, Action, Comedy
Release Year: 2025 (streaming on Apple TV+)
Language: English

Summary:

The Instigators is a crime-comedy action film following two unlikely partners, Rory, a struggling ex-Marine, and Cobby, an alcoholic ex-con. When they’re hired to rob Boston’s corrupt mayor during an election night fundraiser, everything goes wrong. The mayor unexpectedly loses, their planned score falls apart, and they're left with nothing but a mysterious bracelet containing the combination to a hidden safe.

With both the police and criminal underworld closing in, Rory and Cobby kidnap Rory’s therapist, Dr. Rivera, and embark on a chaotic escape through the streets of Boston. Their journey involves shootouts, betrayals, and wild car chases as they uncover a deeper conspiracy involving political corruption and secret financial dealings.

Main Cast:

• Matt Damon as Rory

• Casey Affleck as Cobby

• Hong Chau as Dr. Rivera

• Michael Stuhlbarg, Alfred Molina, Ving Rhames, Ron Perlman, Jack Harlow, Toby Jones

Highlights:

• The film blends dark comedy with heist thriller elements, featuring snappy dialogue and gritty action.

• Casey Affleck’s dry humor and sarcastic wit stand out and bring charm to the film.

• Action scenes, especially car chases, are well-staged and energetic.

• Hong Chau delivers a grounded performance as the unwilling hostage turned voice of reason.

• The story explores themes of broken systems, desperation, and personal redemption.

Reception:

Critics had mixed feelings about the film. While Affleck’s performance and the fast-paced direction were praised, some felt that Matt Damon’s character lacked energy and that the plot was predictable. However, for fans of buddy-heist films with a touch of satire, The Instigators offers an entertaining, if not groundbreaking, ride.