The Bank Job is a 2008 heist thriller film directed by Roger Donaldson and written by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais.
The film is inspired by the real-life 1971 burglary of Lloyds Bank's safety deposit boxes in Baker Street, London. Starring Jason Statham as Terry Leather, the film follows a group of petty criminals who are drawn into a high-stakes heist that uncovers a web of corruption and scandal involving powerful figures.
The plot centers around Terry, who is struggling to make ends meet as a car dealer. When his ex-girlfriend Martine Love (Saffron Burrows) approaches him with a lucrative opportunity to rob a bank, he assembles a crew to execute the plan. However, the heist takes an unexpected turn when they discover that the safe deposit boxes contain not only cash and jewelry but also sensitive information that could implicate high-profile individuals, including members of the British royal family.
The Bank Job premiered in London on February 18, 2008, and was released in the UK on February 29, 2008, followed by its US release on March 7, 2008. The film received mostly positive reviews from critics, with Rotten Tomatoes reporting an 80% approval rating based on 148 reviews. Critics praised its engaging narrative and strong performances, particularly highlighting its blend of humor and suspense.
The film was commercially successful, grossing approximately $66.1 million worldwide against a budget of $20 million. It opened at number four in North America during its opening weekend, earning about $5.9 million. The combination of a compelling true story and well-executed heist elements contributed to its popularity.
With a runtime of 112 minutes, The Bank Job stands out as an entertaining British heist thriller that combines historical intrigue with action and drama. Its exploration of themes such as greed, betrayal, and the consequences of crime resonates with audiences while providing a thrilling cinematic experience.