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Critics Weigh In on Kelly Reichardt’s The Mastermind as UK Release Begins

Reviewers say Reichardt turns a small-town art theft into a quiet study of hubris led by Josh O’Connor.

Overview

  • Set in 1970 Massachusetts, the film opens with a theft of four Arthur Dove paintings that triggers a low-key, character-driven fallout rather than a conventional caper.
  • Reichardt describes the project as an “unwinding” film that pushes the heist to the start to focus on aftermath and moral unraveling.
  • Josh O’Connor’s restrained lead performance draws consistent praise, with many noting the film’s subdued tone over spectacle.
  • Craft highlights include Christopher Blauvelt’s period-evoking cinematography, Anthony Gasparro’s production design, and Rob Mazurek’s jazzy score; the shoot used Ohio locations to stand in for New England.
  • Reception notes commend the atmosphere and intent while some critics fault the slow pacing, tonal transitions, and thinly drawn supporting roles; following a Cannes bow, the film rolls out theatrically this week via MUBI with UK dates around Oct. 23–24.