The Newton Boys
The Newton Boys

Movie spotlight

The Newton Boys

1998
Movie
122 min
English

The story of the Newton gang, the most successful bank robbers in history, owing to their good planning and minimal violence.

Insights

IMDb6.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes57%
Metacritic58/100
Google Users72%
Director: Richard LinklaterGenres: Crime, Drama, Biography

Plot Summary

Based on a true story, 'The Newton Boys' follows four brothers from rural Texas who become the most successful bank robbers in American history during the Great Depression. Charmingly audacious and remarkably efficient, they pull off elaborate heists across the country, eluding authorities with a combination of meticulous planning and sheer nerve. Their exploits lead them to a life of wealth and excitement, but also draw the attention of the FBI and the inevitable consequences of a life outside the law.

Critical Reception

The film received mixed reviews from critics, with many praising its stylish direction and strong performances, particularly from its ensemble cast. However, some found the narrative to be somewhat unfocused and lacking in emotional depth, despite its intriguing true-crime premise. Audiences were similarly divided, with some appreciating its laid-back, character-driven approach to a gangster film.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its cool, laid-back directorial style and the chemistry of its lead actors.

  • Criticized for a meandering plot that doesn't fully capitalize on its fascinating true-crime subject matter.

  • Appreciated for its nostalgic atmosphere and unique take on the gangster genre, though some found it underdeveloped.

Google audience: Google users generally found 'The Newton Boys' to be an enjoyable and stylish crime film, appreciating the performances and the historical setting. However, some felt the plot could have been more engaging and the characters more developed.

Awards & Accolades

None notable.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the true story of the Newton brothers, who were indeed notorious bank robbers in the 1920s and 1930s and are credited with committing some of the largest bank robberies in U.S. history.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Richard Linklater has tried hard with his cast here, but somehow this tale of the real life Newton gang whose criminal career culminated in one of America's most infamous train robberies just doesn't catch fire - at all. Matthew McConaughey...