Locked Down

Movie Trailer

Release Date
January 14, 2021

Genre
Romantic Comedy, Heist, Drama

Cast & Crew

• Anne Hathaway as Linda
• Chiwetel Ejiofor as Paxton
• Ben Stiller as Guy
• Stephen Merchant as Michael
• Mindy Kaling as Kate
• Lucy Boynton as Charlotte
• Ben Kingsley as Malcolm

Director
Doug Liman

Other Movies Director is Known For

• Edge of Tomorrow (2014)
• The Bourne Identity (2002)
• Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)

Producer
P.J. van Sandwijk, Alison Winter, Michael Lesslie, Doug Liman

Writer
Steven Knight

Budget
$3 million (estimated)

Production Company
Warner Bros. Pictures, Storyteller Productions, AGC Studios

Running Time
118 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R

Content Advisory

• Strong language
• Mild sexual content
• Alcohol use
• Mature themes

Movie Story
“Locked Down” is a romantic heist comedy-drama that uniquely captures the chaos and uncertainty of life during the COVID-19 pandemic. The film centers on Linda (Anne Hathaway) and Paxton (Chiwetel Ejiofor), a couple on the brink of separation who find themselves stuck together in their London apartment during the lockdown. The pandemic exacerbates their existing tensions, forcing them to confront their issues and re-evaluate their relationship.

As they navigate the awkwardness of their situation, both personally and professionally, a surprising opportunity presents itself: the chance to steal a valuable diamond from Harrods, the famous London department store. The heist is tied to Linda’s job, and the plot unfolds as the couple decides to pull off this risky and potentially life-changing caper.

The story is a blend of domestic drama and heist movie, with the couple’s strained relationship serving as the emotional core. “Locked Down” explores themes of confinement, both physical and emotional, as well as the transformative potential of crises. The film’s first half focuses on the challenges of lockdown life, from mundane arguments to Zoom meetings, while the second half shifts gears into a more lighthearted and adventurous tone as the heist plan takes shape.

Anne Hathaway and Chiwetel Ejiofor deliver strong performances, bringing depth to their characters’ struggles and eventual reconciliation. Their chemistry is palpable, making the transition from estranged partners to co-conspirators believable and engaging. The supporting cast, including Ben Kingsley and Ben Stiller, adds humor and energy to the film, enhancing its overall charm.

Special Effects
The film’s use of special effects is minimal, focusing instead on the intimate setting of the couple’s apartment and the iconic location of Harrods. The heist scenes are cleverly staged, making use of the department store’s vast and luxurious interiors, which add a sense of grandeur to the otherwise low-key plot.

Box Office Performance
“Locked Down” was released directly on HBO Max, bypassing a traditional theatrical release due to the ongoing pandemic. While it did not have a box office presence, the film attracted attention as one of the first major releases to directly address the COVID-19 lockdown, generating interest on streaming platforms.

Filming Locations

• London, England, UK

Notable Quotes

• “We were planning to be apart, and then the world collapsed.” – Paxton
• “You’re the only thing that makes sense in all this madness.” – Linda

Behind-the-Scenes
“Locked Down” was filmed during the COVID-19 pandemic, with strict safety protocols in place. The film was shot on location in London, including at Harrods, which was closed to the public during the shoot. Director Doug Liman and writer Steven Knight crafted the story quickly to capture the unique moment in time, with much of the dialogue and plot reflecting the real-life challenges of lockdown.

Awards

• N/A

Final Verdict
“Locked Down” is an interesting experiment in pandemic-era filmmaking, blending romantic drama with heist comedy. While the film may not be a standout in either genre, it offers an entertaining and timely look at relationships and resilience during an unprecedented global crisis. Anne Hathaway and Chiwetel Ejiofor’s performances elevate the film, making it a worthwhile watch for those intrigued by the concept of a lockdown heist.

IMDb Rating
5.3/10