No Sudden Move
Movie Trailer
Release Date
July 1, 2021
Genre
Crime, Drama, Thriller
Cast & Crew
- Don Cheadle as Curt Goynes
- Benicio del Toro as Ronald Russo
- David Harbour as Matt Wertz
- Jon Hamm as Detective Joe Finney
- Brendan Fraser as Doug Jones
- Kieran Culkin as Charley
- Amy Seimetz as Mary Wertz
- Ray Liotta as Frank Capelli
Director
Steven Soderbergh
Other Movies Director is Known For
- Ocean’s Eleven (2001)
- Traffic (2000)
- Erin Brockovich (2000)
- Contagion (2011)
- Logan Lucky (2017)
Producer
Casey Silver
Writer
Ed Solomon
Budget
$30 million
Production Company
HBO Max, Warner Bros. Pictures
Running Time
115 minutes
Languages
English
Maturity Rating
R (for language throughout, some violence, and sexual references)
Content Advisory
- Strong language
- Violence
- Sexual references
- Smoking and drinking
Movie Story
No Sudden Move is a tense crime thriller set in 1950s Detroit, centering on a group of small-time criminals who are hired for what seems to be a straightforward job: to steal a document. Curt Goynes (Don Cheadle) and Ronald Russo (Benicio del Toro), along with a few others, are roped into this heist, only to find that the job is anything but simple. The document they’re after is linked to a larger, more dangerous conspiracy involving the auto industry and the mob, leading to a series of double-crosses, betrayals, and unexpected twists.
As the situation spirals out of control, Curt and Ronald must navigate the dangerous streets of Detroit, trying to stay one step ahead of the cops, the mob, and each other. Their journey takes them deep into a web of corruption, where they are forced to confront their own pasts and the moral compromises they’ve made along the way. The film is rich with period detail, capturing the atmosphere of 1950s America while delivering a story that is both gripping and darkly humorous.
Steven Soderbergh’s direction brings a stylish and meticulous touch to the narrative, with sharp dialogue and a complex plot that keeps viewers guessing until the end. The ensemble cast, including Don Cheadle and Benicio del Toro, delivers strong performances, adding depth to their characters and elevating the film beyond a typical heist movie.
Special Effects
The special effects in No Sudden Move are understated, focusing on creating an authentic 1950s atmosphere rather than relying on flashy visuals. The film uses period-accurate props, costumes, and settings to immerse the audience in the era. The cinematography, shot with vintage lenses, adds a unique visual style that enhances the film’s noir aesthetic, with deep shadows and muted colors that evoke the feel of classic crime films. Soderbergh’s use of wide-angle lenses and deliberate camera movements also contributes to the film’s tense and claustrophobic atmosphere.
Box Office Performance
No Sudden Move was released on HBO Max, with no traditional box office release due to the pandemic. The film received positive reviews from critics and audiences, particularly for its direction, performances, and intricate plot. It became one of the most talked-about streaming releases of the summer, solidifying Soderbergh’s reputation for delivering compelling and thought-provoking films.
Filming Locations
- Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Cleveland, Ohio, USA
Notable Quotes
- “It’s like what we used to say about the war… nobody wins.” – Curt Goynes
- “You set this whole thing up. Now you’ve got to see it through.” – Ronald Russo
- “I don’t care who wins, as long as it’s not you.” – Matt Wertz
Behind-the-Scenes
- No Sudden Move was filmed during the COVID-19 pandemic, with strict health protocols in place. The cast and crew worked in a “bubble” to ensure safety while filming.
- Steven Soderbergh served not only as director but also as the cinematographer and editor under pseudonyms, continuing his tradition of taking a hands-on approach to his films.
- The film’s plot is loosely based on real events related to the automotive industry’s collusion in suppressing new technologies, adding an element of historical intrigue to the story.
Awards
- None, but received widespread critical acclaim for its screenplay, direction, and performances.
Final Verdict
No Sudden Move is a smart, stylish crime thriller that showcases Steven Soderbergh’s mastery of the genre. With a complex plot, sharp dialogue, and a stellar cast, the film is a must-watch for fans of noir and heist movies. Its exploration of greed, corruption, and betrayal is both timely and timeless, making it a standout film in the 2021 streaming landscape. Whether you’re drawn in by the period setting, the intricate story, or the powerhouse performances, No Sudden Move is a film that will keep you engaged from start to finish.
IMDb Rating
6.5/10