The Mastermind (2025)

6.3R

2025 film by Kelly Reichardt

The Mastermind is a 2025 heist film written and directed by Kelly Reichardt. It stars Josh O'Connor, Alana Haim, Hope Davis, John Magaro, Gaby Hoffmann and Bill Camp. Set in 1970, the film follows a struggling family man who plots to steal art from a suburban museum while the US rages over the Vietnam War. Reichardt described it as a struggle between the allure of individualism and the necessity of collective action. The film was inspired by a mixture of real-life events and classic films, including the 1972 robbery of the Worcester Art Museum and the films of Jean-Pierre Melville.

The film had its world premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival on May 23, 2025, where it competed for the Palme d'Or, and was released in the United States by Mubi on October 17, 2025.

Plot summary adapted from Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.

FAQ

What is The Mastermind about?
The Mastermind (2025) — In 1970, failed architect James Blaine Mooney and cohorts wander into a museum in broad daylight and steal four paintings. When holding onto the art proves more difficult than stealing them, Mooney is relegated to a life on the run.
Is The Mastermind based on a true story?
See the production background and source material details on the official Wikipedia article.
Is The Mastermind scary?
Content rating: R. See the reviews tab for parental guidance and tone notes.
What is The Mastermind (2025) about? Plot, synopsis and ending explained — Screencodex