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Caught Stealing first reactions
Early praise for Butler and the film's kinetic energy, with some reservations on the plot

Initial reactions praise Austin Butler and note a brisk, tension filled thriller atmosphere as Aronofsky returns to the screen in 1998 set drama
Caught Stealing Signals a Notable Return by Darren Aronofsky
Darren Aronofsky returns to the thriller arena with Caught Stealing set in 1998, a year after his debut Pi. The film stars Austin Butler as Hank Thompson, a former high school baseball phenom who now tends bar in New York and finds himself pulled into a dangerous cycle after agreeing to watch a neighbor's cat. The release is slated for August 29, 2025, and early social media reactions praise Butler's lead performance and the movie's brisk, adrenaline driven energy.
Critics and fans point to the strong work from Zoe Kravitz, Matt Smith, and Vincent D Onofrio, with supporting turns that lift the central chase. Some viewers feel the plot tightens too much for shocks or leans on familiar thriller rhythms, but many agree the pace rarely flags. Early Letterboxd responses show a healthy portion of four star ratings, signaling solid early engagement even if opinions diverge on the finale.
Key Takeaways
"Butler is a force in a career defining turn"
Critic praising Butler’s performance
"Aronofsky lets himself have fun with a thriller"
Editorial note on director tone
"The movie crackles with momentum even when nerves show"
Review noting pacing and energy
Aronofsky shifts toward a leaner, crowd friendly thriller tempo while leaning into the late 90s setting for nostalgia and texture. The director keeps his eye for composition and rhythm, making the film feel like a modern homage to indie thrillers of the era without sacrificing his distinctive edge.
The reception reflects a divide between fans who crave intensity and critics who want more of Aronofsky's provocative voice. The risk is that some viewers see it as stylish rather than substantial, yet the film earns attention through Butler's magnetic presence and a strong ensemble that sustains momentum as the mystery deepens.
Highlights
- Butler proves he is a force in a career defining turn
- Aronofsky finally lets himself have fun with a thriller
- The film crackles with momentum even when nerves show
- This comeback lands with a confident bold stride
Public reaction could shape release dynamics
Early reactions show a divided audience with social media chatter that could influence word of mouth and box office. The August release heightens sensitivity to backlash or controversy if debates intensify around its themes or portrayal.
Time will tell how this one lands with a broader audience beyond early enthusiasm
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