Movie Review: Way Down (2021)
(The Vault in some markets)

Directed by Jaume Balagueró, Way Down is a heist thriller that combines high-stakes action, clever planning, and a dash of historical intrigue. Set against the backdrop of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the film offers a unique setting and premise but occasionally falls into predictable genre conventions. Its blend of suspense and slick execution makes it an entertaining, if not groundbreaking, entry in the heist genre.

Plot Overview

Thom Laybrick (Freddie Highmore), a brilliant engineering student with a knack for solving complex problems, is recruited by a group of professional thieves led by Walter Moreland (Liam Cunningham). The crew aims to break into the seemingly impenetrable vault of the Bank of Spain to retrieve a priceless treasure hidden inside.

The heist is timed to coincide with Spain’s World Cup final, ensuring that the country’s attention is diverted. As the team faces high-tech security measures, a suspicious bank manager (Luis Tosar), and increasing pressure from the authorities, they must rely on their wits and teamwork to pull off the daring robbery.

Performances

• Freddie Highmore delivers a solid performance as Thom, portraying a mix of youthful genius and cautious determination. While his character lacks significant depth, Highmore’s charisma keeps the audience engaged.
• Liam Cunningham brings gravitas and charm to Walter, the mastermind with a personal stake in the heist.
• Astrid Bergès-Frisbey adds intrigue as Lorraine, a skilled thief with a mysterious edge, though her character is underutilized.
• Luis Tosar stands out as the bank’s head of security, lending a sense of menace and intelligence to the role.

Direction and Style

Jaume Balagueró, known for his work in the [REC] series, shifts gears with Way Down, delivering a polished and visually engaging thriller. The film makes excellent use of its unique setting, with the Bank of Spain’s vault depicted as a labyrinth of high-tech defenses and historical secrets. The pacing is brisk, though some of the heist elements feel overly familiar.

Themes

1. Ingenuity and Teamwork: The film emphasizes the importance of intellect and collaboration, with the team’s ability to adapt being key to their success.
2. Power and Corruption: Subplots involving corporate greed and the government’s vested interests add depth to the heist narrative.
3. Historical Legacy: The film incorporates historical elements, including references to Spain’s colonial past, to give the story added layers of intrigue.

Criticism

1. Predictable Plot: While the setting is unique, the heist itself follows a familiar formula, offering few surprises for seasoned fans of the genre.
2. Underdeveloped Characters: Many of the crew members are relegated to archetypes, leaving little room for emotional investment.
3. Unrealistic Elements: The film occasionally stretches believability, particularly during the climactic moments of the heist.

Conclusion

Way Down is a stylish and entertaining heist film that delivers on suspense and spectacle, even if it doesn’t reinvent the genre. With its unique setting and solid performances, it’s a fun ride for fans of heist thrillers, though it may leave some viewers craving deeper storytelling and character development.