Triple 9

Given all of the elements within the story of Triple 9 – the Russian mafia, corrupt cops, dedicated cops and ex-special forces – combined with an all-star cast, this film really should have made away with the loot, but sadly stables at the pivotal moment and is captured by predictability.

Opening with a wonderfully shot and gripping heist, Triple 9 is an instant adrenaline hit that makes you want to strap in for the tumultuous ride. The audience is then let in on the title of the film, 999 is code for officer down, and this is precisely the distraction the group needs in order to create the time to complete the final big heist.

It’s from here that we slowly begin to get to know each of the characters stories as they individually come to terms with the plan, unfortunately however none of these characters are particularly special or new to genre.

Director John Hillcoat is a master at epic choreographed action sequences and the visceral scenes he portrays here are the true standout of this film, but that is not enough to make up for a predictable, uninspired plot that is fun but far from ground-breaking.

***