The Instigators: Matt Damon & Doug Liman Reunite, But Critics Are Divided

For "The Instigators," Matt Damon and Doug Liman Reunite, but Critics Still Divided

The pair behind the venerable "The Bourne Identity," Matt Damon and Doug Liman, have teamed together for "The Instigators," an Apple TV+ action comedy. After a heist goes wrong, two inexperienced criminals—Rory (Matt Damon) and Cobby (Casey Affleck)—find themselves on the run with their therapist, Anna (Hong Chau). Although the movie seeks a softer tone than its predecessors, opinions on its success have been split.

A Rotten Tomatoes Grade Reflecting Divergent Viewpoints

"The Instigators" has a "rotten" rating on Rotten Tomatoes as of right now thanks to a 59% score. This rating emphasizes the conflicting reception the movie has had from critics even if it changes when more reviews are added. With an 84% rating, "The Bourne Identity" suggests that Damon and Liman have not totally caught the enchantment of their past working relationship.

Critics Point Out Strengths and weaknesses of the movie.

Many commentators point out the film's comic qualities as a strength. "The Instigators" plays on Rory's inexperience and the interplay between Damon and Affleck, therefore embracing their humor. Still, the general tone has been more polarizing. Critics such as Molly Freeman of Screen Rant contend that the film's attempts at parodying the criminal genre run counter to its grittier features, therefore producing a very muddled middle ground. Although Freeman notes the movie is still enjoyable, others such as Nick Schager of The Daily Beast found the movie conventional and generic.

A Divided Reception Notwithstanding Familiarity

"The Instigators" boasts a star-studded ensemble including Matt Damon, Casey Affleck, and Hong Chau despite conflicting reviews. Previously working on the "Ocean's" franchise and the most recent feature "Oppenheimer," Damon and Affleck have The critical division has dominated the movie's reaction even with the recognizable names. Still, some critics—like Ross McIndoe of Slant Magazine—value the movie's "always entertaining" quality despite its shortcomings. In the end, viewers might relate more to "The Instigators" than critics could.

Beyond the Criticisms: "The Instigators"

Though it presents a distinct view on the action comedy genre, "The Instigators" might not be the critical hit "The Bourne Identity" was. The movie looks at the subtleties of personal relationships and the fallout from bold choices. In the end, "The Instigators" offers evidence of Matt Damon and Doug Liman's ongoing cooperation even if the movie might not be their most highly praised one.