Hey guys! Ever wondered if that hilarious heist comedy, Masterminds, is actually any good according to Rotten Tomatoes? Well, buckle up, because we're diving deep into the critical reception of this star-studded flick. We'll explore what the critics thought, what audiences loved (or didn't), and ultimately, help you decide if it's worth your precious movie-watching time. Let's get started and unravel the mystery behind Masterminds' Rotten Tomatoes score!

What is Masterminds About?

Before we dissect the critical reception, let's quickly recap what Masterminds is all about. This 2016 comedy, directed by Jared Hess, is based on the true story of the 1997 Loomis Fargo Robbery. The film follows David Ghant, played by Zach Galifianakis, an unassuming armored truck driver who gets lured into an elaborate bank heist by his flirtatious co-worker, Kelly Campbell, portrayed by Kristen Wiig. Things quickly spiral out of control as David finds himself double-crossed by his accomplices, led by Steve Chambers, played by Owen Wilson.

Masterminds is packed with slapstick humor, quirky characters, and over-the-top situations. The humor relies heavily on the comedic talents of its cast, which also includes Jason Sudeikis, Kate McKinnon, and Leslie Jones. The movie attempts to blend the absurdity of the real-life crime with classic comedic tropes, aiming for a light-hearted and entertaining experience. The plot centers around David's journey from a naive participant to a determined fugitive, trying to clear his name and get his share of the stolen money. Masterminds aims to entertain with its farcical take on a real-life crime, banking on the comedic chemistry of its ensemble cast to deliver laughs. However, does this translate into critical acclaim? Let’s find out!

Masterminds: The Rotten Tomatoes Verdict

So, what's the Masterminds movie Rotten Tomatoes score? Drumroll, please! The film currently holds a Rotten Tomatoes score of 34% based on 136 reviews from critics. This score indicates that the majority of critics did not find the film to be fresh or enjoyable. Critics' consensus often points to the movie's reliance on lowbrow humor and its failure to fully capitalize on the comedic potential of its talented cast. While some critics appreciated the film's absurdity and the performances of certain actors, the overall sentiment leans towards disappointment.

The critics' reviews highlight several recurring issues. Many felt that the script was weak and lacked cleverness, relying too heavily on slapstick and predictable gags. Some critics also pointed out that the film's pacing was uneven, with certain scenes dragging on for too long while others felt rushed. Despite the comedic prowess of the cast, many critics felt that their talents were not fully utilized, and the characters often came across as one-dimensional and uninspired. However, it's important to note that critical reception is just one piece of the puzzle. Audience scores can often paint a different picture. Let's delve into what the general audience thought of Masterminds.

Audience Reception: A Different Story?

While critics weren't particularly fond of Masterminds, the audience reception tells a slightly different story. The film boasts an audience score of 43% on Rotten Tomatoes, based on over 10,000 ratings. Although still not overwhelmingly positive, this score suggests that some viewers found the film to be more enjoyable than the critics did. What accounts for this discrepancy? It could be that audiences were more forgiving of the film's flaws, appreciating its light-hearted humor and the comedic performances of the cast.

Many viewers who enjoyed Masterminds praised the performances of Zach Galifianakis, Kristen Wiig, and Kate McKinnon. These actors are known for their comedic timing and ability to deliver hilarious performances, and some viewers felt that they were the saving grace of the film. Additionally, some audience members appreciated the film's absurdity and its willingness to embrace over-the-top situations. While the film may not have been a critical darling, it seems to have found a niche audience that appreciated its particular brand of humor. It's a classic case of a movie that didn't resonate with critics but still managed to entertain a segment of the viewing public. Ultimately, whether or not you'll enjoy Masterminds may depend on your personal taste and your tolerance for slapstick comedy.

Common Criticisms of Masterminds

Let's break down some of the most common criticisms leveled against Masterminds. One of the primary issues cited by critics is the lack of originality in the humor. Many felt that the film relied too heavily on tired comedic tropes and predictable gags, failing to offer anything fresh or innovative. The script was often described as weak and uninspired, with jokes that fell flat and situations that felt forced. Critics also pointed to the film's uneven pacing, with certain scenes dragging on for too long while others felt rushed and underdeveloped. This inconsistent pacing detracted from the overall viewing experience and made it difficult for some viewers to stay engaged.

Another common criticism was the underutilization of the talented cast. While the film boasts an impressive ensemble of comedic actors, many critics felt that their talents were not fully utilized. The characters were often one-dimensional and lacked depth, preventing the actors from fully showcasing their comedic abilities. Some critics also felt that the film's direction was lacking, failing to bring out the best in the cast and the material. Despite the comedic potential of the premise and the actors involved, Masterminds ultimately failed to deliver on its promise, leaving many critics disappointed. However, even with these criticisms, there are some redeeming qualities that are worth exploring.

Redeeming Qualities of Masterminds

Despite the negative reviews, Masterminds does have some redeeming qualities. One of the most frequently praised aspects of the film is the performances of the cast, particularly Zach Galifianakis, Kristen Wiig, and Kate McKinnon. Galifianakis brings his signature brand of awkwardness and physical comedy to the role of David Ghant, while Wiig shines as the manipulative and alluring Kelly Campbell. McKinnon delivers a memorable performance as Jandice, adding her unique brand of quirky humor to the mix. These actors are known for their comedic timing and ability to improvise, and their performances are often cited as the highlights of the film.

Additionally, some viewers appreciated the film's absurdity and its willingness to embrace over-the-top situations. Masterminds doesn't take itself too seriously, and its embrace of the ridiculous can be entertaining for those who enjoy that type of humor. The film's farcical take on the real-life Loomis Fargo Robbery adds to its comedic appeal, and some viewers found the outlandish plot and characters to be amusing. While Masterminds may not be a cinematic masterpiece, it does offer some light-hearted entertainment for those who are willing to overlook its flaws. It's a film that knows what it is and doesn't try to be anything else, and that self-awareness can be refreshing. Ultimately, whether or not you'll enjoy Masterminds may depend on your personal taste and your willingness to embrace its particular brand of humor.

Should You Watch Masterminds?

So, should you watch Masterminds? Considering the Masterminds movie Rotten Tomatoes score and the general consensus, it really depends on your taste in comedy. If you're a fan of slapstick humor, over-the-top characters, and aren't too concerned about a tightly woven plot, you might find Masterminds entertaining. The film is undoubtedly silly and doesn't take itself seriously, which can be a welcome escape if you're looking for a lighthearted movie night. However, if you prefer more sophisticated comedy with clever writing and well-developed characters, Masterminds might leave you disappointed.

Consider your tolerance for absurd humor and your appreciation for the cast. If you enjoy the work of Zach Galifianakis, Kristen Wiig, and Kate McKinnon, their performances alone might make the film worth watching. However, if you're easily annoyed by predictable jokes and nonsensical situations, you might want to steer clear. Ultimately, the best way to decide if Masterminds is for you is to watch the trailer and see if it aligns with your comedic sensibilities. Don't rely solely on the Rotten Tomatoes score, as audience opinions can vary widely. Give it a shot if you're in the mood for some mindless fun, but don't expect a cinematic masterpiece.

Alternatives to Masterminds

If Masterminds' Rotten Tomatoes score and critical reception have you feeling hesitant, don't worry, there are plenty of other heist comedies to choose from! Here are a few alternatives that have garnered more positive reviews:

• Ocean's Eleven (2001): A classic heist film with a star-studded cast, clever plot twists, and a stylish execution.
• The Italian Job (2003): A remake of the 1969 film, this action-packed heist movie features Mini Coopers, gold bars, and plenty of suspense.
• Snatch (2000): A British crime comedy with a complex plot, quirky characters, and Guy Ritchie's signature directorial style.
• 21 (2008): Based on a true story, this film follows a group of MIT students who use their math skills to win big at Las Vegas casinos.
• Game Night (2018): A more recent comedy that blends humor and suspense in a unique and entertaining way.

These films offer a variety of comedic styles and heist scenarios, so you're sure to find something that suits your taste. Don't let one disappointing Rotten Tomatoes score discourage you from exploring the world of heist comedies! There are plenty of gems out there waiting to be discovered.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Masterminds' Rotten Tomatoes score isn't exactly stellar, but that doesn't necessarily mean you should write it off completely. While critics were largely unimpressed, some audience members found the film to be a lighthearted and entertaining escape. Ultimately, whether or not you'll enjoy Masterminds depends on your personal taste in comedy and your tolerance for slapstick humor. If you're a fan of Zach Galifianakis, Kristen Wiig, and Kate McKinnon, their performances alone might make the film worth watching. However, if you prefer more sophisticated comedy with clever writing and well-developed characters, you might want to explore some of the alternatives mentioned above. Happy movie watching, folks!