TL;DR The Mastermind is Kelly Reichardt’s quietly gripping 1970s-set heist drama starring Josh O’Connor as a mild-mannered father who turns to art theft. Premiered at Cannes 2025 and vying for the Palme d’Or, it’s slated for theatrical release on October 17, 2025. Expect a low-key, tension-filled exploration of ambition, disillusionment, and identity.
A Heist with Quiet Intensity
Kelly Reichardt, known for her intimate and observational storytelling (First Cow, Showing Up), takes an unusual turn with The Mastermind—a heist film drenched in 1970s Americana.
- Plot: Josh O’Connor portrays James “JB” Mooney, a disillusioned carpenter turned amateur art thief. Inspired by desperation more than expertise, JB plans a daring museum heist—but chaos ensues, and his life unravels.
- Tone & Style: Unlike typical flashy heist movies, Reichardt’s film is minimalist and meditative, embracing autumnal visuals, jazz-inflected atmosphere, and an offbeat sense of dark humor.
Cast & Creative Team
- Director & Writer: Kelly Reichardt
- Lead Actor: Josh O’Connor (The Crown, Challengers) as JB Mooney
- Supporting Cast:
- Alana Haim as Terri Mooney, JB’s wife
- Hope Davis, Bill Camp, John Magaro, Gaby Hoffmann among others rounding out the ensemble
Premieres & Release Date
- World Premiere: 2025 Cannes Film Festival — nominated for the Palme d’Or
- Festival Screenings: Coming soon to the New York Film Festival
- Theatrical Release: Set for October 17, 2025, via MUBI
- UK & Ireland Debut: Rolling out on October 24, 2025
