'Ocean's 8' is deviously delightful

"Ocean's 8" is a clever heist movie that is sure to steal some thrills and smiles.

Debbie Ocean (Sandra Bullock), recently released from prison after spending five years behind bars, promises to reform and turn away from her life of crime.

But she really has no intention of doing either, and the second she's out she begins making plans with her partner, Lou (Cate Blanchett), to pull off a huge heist. To do that, they're going to need some help and come up with a team of eight women to steal a diamond necklace at the Met Gala.

Although stealing the jewels is a big motivator for Debbie, she would also like a side order of revenge against a man who had done her wrong. Lou warns her "never do a job in a job," but Debbie and her crew go ahead with the plan, leaving the audience to wonder what parts of it will succeed or fail.

There is much in "Ocean's 8" that feels similar to "Ocean's 11" and its subsequent sequels starring George Clooney as Danny Ocean (who gets a few nods in this film). The style of editing, with quick cuts of jewels or various thieves at work, is much the same.

The soundtrack features some catchy tunes with a percussion-based score, also similar to "Ocean's 11." The score drives the action and characters forward, providing rhythm to the editing, movement and even the dialogue, making it a perfectly synchronized machine.

However, this is Debbie's movie, not Danny's.

Bullock, Blanchett and the cast of A-list actresses including Anne Hathaway, Mindy Kaling, Sarah Paulson, Awkafina, Helena Bonham Carter and Rihanna are what makes this movie and what makes it stand out.

Each character is there because they have the skills and need the money. But Debbie also believes in them. There is never any doubt in her mind that they can pull it off.

The cast works so well together, whether it's a perfectly executed joke or a look from character to character. It's fun to see them all working together to do some illegal activity.

"Ocean's 8" has crime thrills and comedic moments, but more than anything it's just plain fun. Watching these criminals should be illegal.

Brewster is a graduate of Lewiston High School and Lewis-Clark State College and has a master's degree in film and television studies from the University of Glasgow, Scotland. Do you have questions about film or TV? Call or email at (208) 848-2297 or kbrewster@lmtribune.com.