Sundance 2022: Aubrey Plaza Finds a New Life in ‘Emily the Criminal’
by Alex Billington
January 25, 2022
Yo ho, a criminal’s life for me. Maybe doing something illegal might actually be better than working a “real” job? There’s clever commentary worked into this new film about the inherent problems with capitalism and corporate culture, ultimately hinting that the quickest and easiest way to earn money might actually be the best way. Which is why so many people choose this path instead of a formal career. Emily the Criminal is a slick, engaging credit card scam heist thriller starring Aubrey Plaza – who also produced the film. This is one of the final premieres at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival and it’s a late fest highlight, one of my faves. It remains hyper focused and never wanders, with a 96 minute runtime that is just right for this story. A few critics have compared it to Uncut Gems, but I’d say it’s much more similar to the black jack scam movie 21.
Emily the Criminal is both written & directed by John Patton Ford, making his feature directorial debut with this film after only one short previously. He’s obviously a talented filmmaker because this has the skills of someone who has been making many films already. I hope he makes another one soon. It’s obviously a low budget thriller, yet it doesn’t seem like the budget limited them in any way. All the scenes feel important and there’s never a need for it to expand any more or get any bigger than it…
