The Re-‘Den of Thieves’ LIVE With Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Van Lathan
Jan 7, 2025
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The hosts dive into the entertaining heist film 'Den of Thieves', comparing it to iconic crime classics. They explore its unexpected box office success and cultural impact, all while sharing humorous anecdotes. The conversation includes playful casting ideas, a hilarious debate on character motivations, and discussions about the quirks of heist narratives. Nostalgic memories intertwine with comedy as they reflect on memorable moments in crime cinema and examine how films like this have carved their niche amid evolving viewing habits.
01:40:30
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Quick takeaways
The podcast highlights the complex narrative of 'Den of Thieves,' emphasizing its blend of crime and moral ambiguity between law enforcement and criminals.
Hosts explore the depth of characters like Merriman and Big Nick, showcasing the audience's struggle to discern their ethical alignments.
Discussion of 'Den of Thieves' impact on the heist genre underscores its fresh take on conventions while referencing iconic films like 'Heat'.
Deep dives
Introduction of New Co-Host
The podcast welcomes a new co-host, Dave Jacoby, who will join Chris Vernon twice weekly to discuss all things NBA. This format aims to cover a range of topics including team performances, player trades, and behind-the-scenes league dynamics. Vernon expresses excitement about this collaboration, encouraging listeners to engage by subscribing and leaving ratings on various platforms. They emphasize the importance of staying connected with fans via social media and the Ringer NBA YouTube channel.
Den of Thieves Strategy and Themes
The discussion highlights the intricate plot of 'Den of Thieves,' focusing on its heist elements and character depth. The film is noted to incorporate layers of both crime and robbery narratives, exploring motivations behind the characters' actions. The plot cleverly intertwines the lives of law enforcement and criminals, suggesting an underlying ambivalence toward who should be considered the antagonist. The movie examines the ethics of its characters, often blurring the lines between right and wrong.
Character Complexity and Motivation
The characters in 'Den of Thieves' are explored, particularly focusing on their complexities and personal struggles. The roles of Merriman and Big Nick are discussed as both embodying traits of obsession and moral ambiguity, making it difficult for audiences to determine whom to root for. The narrative structure allows for gradual revelations about the characters, which keeps viewers engaged and invested in their outcomes. The performance of the actors, especially Gerard Butler as Big Nick, and Pablo Schreiber as Merriman, adds depth to the story.
Cultural Influence and Impact
The impact of 'Den of Thieves' on crime movie genres is discussed, particularly its references to iconic films like 'Heat' and the direct influence it had on subsequent heist films. Critics may label it as derivative, yet it contributes a fresh perspective on the heist-film trope with its gritty themes and character dynamics. The podcast hosts compare it to other famous crime dramas, noting how it revitalizes conventions with a modern twist. This connection to established films enriches the viewing experience and provides a familiar context for audiences.
Replay Value and Audience Engagement
The replayability of 'Den of Thieves' is emphasized, as viewers find new layers and details upon each subsequent watch. The hosts note that scenes can be appreciated independently, allowing fans to enjoy specific moments without needing the entire context of the film. The character intricacies, plot twists, and engaging action sequences lead to discussions among fans, enhancing community engagement. This phenomenon is indicative of how the film maintains relevance within fan circles well after its initial release.
Future of the Franchise
Potential sequels or additional content featuring 'Den of Thieves' raises excitement among the hosts, as they ponder the directions future stories may take. The anticipation surrounding 'Den of Thieves 2: Pantera' is palpable, hinting at a further exploration of the original film's characters and themes. There's speculation regarding how the sequel could expand on the initial narrative while introducing new elements for audiences to enjoy. The lasting impact and ongoing discourse surrounding the film indicate a devoted fanbase eager for more related content.
The Ringer’s Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Van Lathan didn’t appreciate the sold-out crowd in Los Angeles popping off like that after rewatching the 2018 heist film ‘Den of Thieves,’ starring Gerard Butler, O’Shea Jackson Jr., 50 Cent, and Pablo Schreiber.
