Not only is “Mad Money” expected with excitement since it is a comeback film for Mrs. Tom Cruise, but its cast and box-office hit potential make it appealing.
The tale, based on a script by Glen Gers, is a comedy about three women of very different backgrounds who form an alliance and rob the Federal Reserve Bank. Directed by Calie Khouri, Divine Secrets of The Ya-Ya Sisterhood director, the film is amusing and great for a girls night out.
Bridget Cardigan (Diane Keaton) finds out her husband (Ted Danson) gets demoted at work. Her upper middle class lifestyle will be affected, especially because she only has an old English degree and little experience to obtain a good job. In fear if loosing her home she accepts a position that requires few skills, a janitorial position at the Reserve.
At first weary of interacting with her co-workers, Bridget realizes that Nina (Queen Latifah), a hard-working single mom with two kids, and Jackie (Holmes), a free-spirited gal wiling to try anything, are very similar. They all find themselves in a society that underestimates their capabilities, never allowing them to fulfill their dreams. In the midst of their bonding they turn revolutionary and decide to get payback for having to follow the rules.
The women plan to smuggle money out of the Reserve, and — as unlikely as it may seem — they achieve their goal. Unfortunately, loose ends get the police on their tails and they try to outsmart authorities to remain safe.
The leading ladies interact well on screen, and the morale of “women can do anything” makes the movie enjoyable. As always, Queen Latifah brings laughs to audiences and both Keaton and Holmes portray their respective roles well.
In a Hollywood world where spies and 11/12/13-man teams are the only ones who get to steal and get away with it, it is refreshing to see three common women go above and beyond to commit a major, fantasy, crime.
“Mad Money” hits theaters on January 18 and is rated PG-13.
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