Ocean’s Eleven, released in theaters on Dec. 7, 2001, is a stylish and entertaining heist film directed by Steven Soderbergh. The film follows Danny Ocean (George Clooney), a charismatic thief who assembles a team of eleven experts to pull off a daring heist at three Las Vegas casinos, including the iconic Bellagio Resort & Casino.
George Clooney in Ocean’s Eleven (Photo/Warner Bros.)
After four years in prison, Ocean reunites with Rusty Ryan (Brad Pitt) to put the plan in motion in Las Vegas, which includes robbing the three casinos on the night of a high profile Lennox Lewis-Wladimir Klitschko fight that ensures the Bellagio will have extra money on hand in order to legally have enough funds to cover all casino patrons’ bets played on the floor on that particular evening.
The film’s meticulous planning and execution of the heist are a joy to watch. The attention to detail and the intricate web of deception create a sense of excitement and anticipation. The heist itself is a masterclass in cinematic suspense, with each member of the team playing a crucial role in the operation.
While the film’s plot is relatively straightforward, its stylish direction, witty dialogue, and memorable characters elevate it beyond a typical heist film. The stunning visuals of the Las Vegas Strip, particularly the Bellagio, add to the film’s allure.
Iconic Cast
The film’s ensemble cast is a highlight, with each actor bringing their unique flair to their respective roles.
Clooney leads the team with his effortless charm and charisma, while Pitt shines as the charming and reckless second-in command Ryan.
Julia Roberts delivers a captivating performance as Tess Ocean, Danny’s ex-wife who is currently dating Terry Benedict (Andy Garcia), owner of the Bellagio, Mirage and MGM Grand casinos.
Julia Roberts in Ocean’s Eleven (Photo/Warner Bros.)
Matt Damon stars as Linus Caldwell, the last of the eleven recruited for the job. Mark Wahlberg was originally cast as Caldwell, but opted to star in the 2001 remake, Planet of the Apes directed by Tim Burton.
The supporting cast, including Carl Reiner, Bernie Mac, Scott Caan, Casey Affleck, Elliott Gould, Eddie Jemison, Qin Shaobo and Don Cheadle all deliver memorable performances.
Reception for Ocean’s Eleven
On its opening weekend, Ocean’s Eleven grossed $38.1 million and was the No. 1 film of the weekend, knocking Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone from the top spot.
The film would gross $183.4 million domestically and $450.7 million worldwide.
It was Clooney’s highest-grossing film until Gravity also starring Sandra Bullock, surpassed it in 2013 with over $500 million at the box office.
The Hollywood Reporter‘s positive review said “The movie operates solely in the arena of fantasy wish fulfillment. This is a movie for anyone who has lost a wad in Vegas, lost a mate to a really smooth rich guy or gal or simply lost his keys through lack of organization.”
The “Ocean’s Eleven” crew at the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas (Photo/Warner Bros.)
Sequels
Soderbergh directed two sequels, Ocean’s Twelve (2004), which added Catherine Zeta-Jones and Bruce Willis to the fun and took place in Lake Como, Italy and Ocean’s Thirteen (2007) which added Al Pacino and Ellen Barkin to the cast and returned the action to Las Vegas to make up the Ocean’s Trilogy.
Ocean’s 8, with an ensemble cast all-female crew of Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Helena Bonham Carter, Anne Hathaway, Sarah Paulson, Rihanna, Mindy Kaling and Awkwafina was released in 2018.
Lasting Legacy
Ocean’s Eleven , which is itself a remake of the 1960 Ocean’s Eleven that starred Frank Sinatra, Dean Martinis a classic heist film that has stood the test of time. Its blend of style, substance, and star power makes it a must-watch for not only fans of the genre, but all movie lovers.
