Spellbound
Spellbound

Movie spotlight

Spellbound

2002
Movie
97 min
English

This documentary follows 8 teens and pre-teens as they work their way toward the finals of the Scripps Howard national spelling bee championship in Washington D.C.

Insights

IMDb6.4/10
Director: Jez ButterworthGenres: Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

A talented but disgraced magician, Tony Angel, is blackmailed into participating in a high-stakes heist orchestrated by the ruthless gangster, George. To pull off the elaborate plan, Tony must assemble a crew of eccentric specialists, including his estranged father. As the heist unfolds, loyalties are tested and double-crosses are revealed, leading to a chaotic and unpredictable conclusion.

Critical Reception

Spellbound received a mixed reception from critics and audiences. While some praised its dark humor and stylish direction, many found the plot convoluted and the characters underdeveloped. It's often seen as a lesser-known entry in the British crime-comedy genre.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its inventive premise and dark comedic elements.

  • Criticized for a convoluted plot and uneven pacing.

  • Noted for its gritty, albeit somewhat predictable, crime narrative.

Google audience: Audience reception for Spellbound is largely unavailable through aggregated online reviews. Those that exist tend to be divided, with some appreciating the film's unique style and performances, while others found it to be an unremarkable entry in its genre.

Fun Fact

The film was originally intended to be a vehicle for actor Jason Statham before his breakthrough role in 'Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels'.

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