Flypaper (2011) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Directed by Rob Minkoff, Flypaper is a quirky heist comedy that cleverly intertwines elements of crime, romance, and dark humor. Starring Patrick Dempsey and Ashley Judd, the film presents a unique take on the classic bank heist trope, delivering unexpected twists and plenty of laughs. With its engaging plot and character dynamics, Flypaper offers a refreshing blend of suspense and comedy.
In this review, we’ll explore the plot, character performances, themes, visual style, and critical reception, along with where to stream or rent Flypaper online in the U.S.
Plot Summary: A Heist Gone Awry
Set in a small-town bank, the film begins with a seemingly ordinary day that quickly descends into chaos. Patrick Dempsey plays Tripp, a hapless but charming bank customer who finds himself caught in the middle of a heist orchestrated by two groups of robbers—one led by the inept but comedic duo of Jack (Tim Blake Nelson) and his partner, and the other by a more organized and menacing gang.
As the robbers clash and Tripp attempts to navigate the absurd situation, he discovers a deeper connection with the bank’s teller, Kaitlin (Ashley Judd). The film balances the tension of the heist with Tripp’s attempts to win Kaitlin’s affection, creating a mix of comedy and suspense that keeps audiences engaged.
Cast and Performances: A Comedic Ensemble
Flypaper features a talented cast that brings the film’s humor and tension to life:
- Patrick Dempsey as Tripp delivers a charismatic performance, effortlessly blending charm and comedic timing as he navigates the chaos around him.
- Ashley Judd as Kaitlin brings depth and wit to her role, providing a strong counterpart to Dempsey’s character and enhancing the film’s romantic subplot.
- Tim Blake Nelson and Megan Fox provide comedic relief as the bumbling robbers, with their dynamic creating some of the film’s funniest moments.
- The supporting cast, including Jeffrey Tambor and Pablo Schreiber, adds to the ensemble’s comedic appeal, ensuring that the film is packed with humorous interactions.
Themes: Love, Chaos, and Redemption
Flypaper explores several significant themes:
- Love and connection: The budding romance between Tripp and Kaitlin serves as a central focus, illustrating how unexpected circumstances can lead to genuine connections. Their relationship adds emotional depth to the comedic chaos.
- Chaos and absurdity: The film portrays the unpredictability of life, with the heist serving as a backdrop for the characters’ growth and interactions. It highlights how people can rise to the occasion in unexpected ways.
- Redemption: As the characters navigate the chaos, they each confront their motivations and flaws, leading to moments of self-discovery and growth.
Visual Style: Lighthearted and Engaging
The visual style of Flypaper is bright and lively, reflecting the film’s comedic tone. The bank setting provides a claustrophobic yet humorous backdrop for the unfolding chaos. The cinematography effectively captures the characters’ expressions and interactions, enhancing the comedic moments.
The pacing of the film is brisk, keeping viewers engaged as the plot unfolds with unexpected twists and turns.
Critical Reception: A Mixed Bag
Upon its release, Flypaper received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its unique blend of humor and crime, others felt it lacked depth and coherence. However, many viewers appreciated the film’s lighthearted approach and comedic performances, leading to a cult following.
Critics often highlighted the film’s ability to entertain despite its flaws, recognizing its charm and humor as strengths.
Where to Watch Flypaper Online in the U.S.
If you’re interested in watching Flypaper, here are some platforms in the U.S. where you can find it:
1. Amazon Prime Video
Flypaper is available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video.
- Rental Price: Around $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $12.99
- Devices: Available on Fire TV, Roku, smart TVs, and mobile devices.
2. Apple TV (iTunes)
Apple TV users can rent or purchase Flypaper in HD.
- Rental Price: Around $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $12.99
- Devices: Available on iPhones, iPads, Apple TVs, and Macs.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
You can rent or purchase Flypaper on Google Play Movies.
- Rental Price: Around $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $12.99
- Devices: Watch on Android devices, smart TVs, and Chromecast.
4. Vudu
Vudu offers Flypaper for rental and purchase without a subscription.
- Rental Price: Around $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $12.99
- Devices: Available on Roku, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
5. YouTube Movies
YouTube Movies also has Flypaper for rental or purchase.
- Rental Price: Around $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $12.99
- Devices: Available on smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.
Conclusion: A Fun and Quirky Heist Comedy
Flypaper is an entertaining heist comedy that successfully combines humor, romance, and unexpected twists. With strong performances from its cast and a lighthearted approach to the heist genre, the film offers an enjoyable viewing experience. For anyone looking for a fun movie that balances laughs and suspense, Flypaper is a great choice, available on various streaming and rental platforms in the U.S.