All the Money in the World (2017) Review: A Tense Thriller with a Remarkable Story
All the Money in the World (2017), directed by Ridley Scott, is a riveting thriller based on the real-life kidnapping of John Paul Getty III, the grandson of billionaire oil tycoon J. Paul Getty. The film explores themes of greed, family, and the moral costs of immense wealth, delivering a gripping narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Plot Overview: A High-Stakes Kidnapping Drama
The film is set in 1973 and follows the harrowing true story of the kidnapping of 16-year-old John Paul Getty III (Charlie Plummer). The young Getty is abducted by a group of criminals led by Cinquanta (Romain Duris), who demand a ransom from his grandfather, J. Paul Getty (Christopher Plummer), one of the richest men in the world.
Despite the severity of the situation, Getty Sr. is reluctant to pay the ransom, prompting John Paul’s mother, Gail Harris (Michelle Williams), to take matters into her own hands. She teams up with Getty’s private investigator, Fletcher Chase (Mark Wahlberg), to navigate a complex web of deceit and danger as they attempt to secure her son’s release.
Performances: A Star-Studded Cast at Their Best
- Christopher Plummer: Replacing Kevin Spacey in the role of J. Paul Getty, Plummer delivers a standout performance as the enigmatic and unyielding billionaire. His portrayal adds depth to Getty Sr.’s complex character, capturing the man’s wealth-driven morality and familial detachment.
- Michelle Williams: Williams provides a deeply emotional performance as Gail Harris. Her portrayal of a mother’s desperation and determination is both heartfelt and compelling, making her character’s struggle the emotional core of the film.
- Mark Wahlberg: As Fletcher Chase, Wahlberg brings a combination of grit and charm to the role of the private investigator. His character’s pragmatic approach to the crisis adds a layer of tension and urgency to the narrative.
Direction and Screenplay: Masterful Storytelling
Ridley Scott’s direction in All the Money in the World is both taut and immersive. He skillfully builds suspense and tension throughout the film, creating a narrative that is both thrilling and emotionally charged. The screenplay, written by David Scarpa, adapts the true story with a focus on the personal and moral dilemmas faced by the characters, providing a compelling and nuanced portrayal of the events.
The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing for a detailed exploration of the characters’ motivations and the complexities of the kidnapping. Scott’s direction ensures that the tension remains high, while the screenplay’s focus on character development adds depth to the story.
Cinematography and Production Design: Evoking a Period Atmosphere
The cinematography by Dariusz Wolski effectively captures the 1970s setting, with a visual style that enhances the film’s period authenticity. The use of lighting and color helps to create a sense of time and place, immersing viewers in the era of the kidnapping.
The production design is meticulous, recreating the opulence of Getty Sr.’s world and the grim reality of the kidnapping’s aftermath. The attention to detail in the set design and costumes contributes to the film’s overall atmosphere and authenticity.
Reception and Impact: A Compelling True Crime Thriller
All the Money in the World received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised the film for its strong performances, particularly Plummer’s. The film’s exploration of themes related to wealth and family, combined with its tense and engaging narrative, earned it recognition as a compelling true crime thriller.
The film’s production faced significant challenges, including the last-minute replacement of Kevin Spacey with Christopher Plummer. However, Plummer’s performance and Scott’s direction managed to turn these challenges into a compelling and successful film.
Streaming and Availability
As of September 2024, All the Money in the World is available for streaming and rental/purchase on the following platforms in the United States:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple TV/iTunes: Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & YouTube: Available for rental or purchase in HD.
- Vudu: Offers both rental and purchase options.
Conclusion: A Gripping and Thought-Provoking Thriller
All the Money in the World (2017) is a masterfully crafted thriller that combines a true crime story with a deep exploration of family and greed. Ridley Scott’s direction, coupled with strong performances from Christopher Plummer, Michelle Williams, and Mark Wahlberg, makes for a captivating viewing experience. The film’s focus on the moral and personal complexities of the Getty kidnapping adds depth to its thrilling narrative, making it a must-watch for fans of true crime and drama.
