Is Masterminds Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Masterminds is likely a skip if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 95 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Masterminds Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2016, Masterminds emerges as a significant entry in the Action, Comedy, Crime domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A night guard at an armored car company in the Southern U. Unlike standard genre fare, Masterminds attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Masterminds features a noteworthy lineup led by Zach Galifianakis . Supported by the likes of Owen Wilson and Kristen Wiig , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Masterminds (2016) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.8/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Masterminds Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Masterminds is a Action, Comedy, Crime film that delivers high-octane sequences and adrenaline-pumping confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
The narrative structure follows a classic action blueprint: establish the protagonist's world, introduce a formidable antagonist, and escalate the stakes through increasingly intense confrontations. A night guard at an armored car company in the Southern U.S. organizes one of the biggest bank heists in American history. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The film opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: The final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
Masterminds Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Masterminds attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The climactic sequence delivers on the escalating tension, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Masterminds reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Masterminds Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Masterminds incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, comedy, crime film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Masterminds adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Masterminds?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Action films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Masterminds Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $25.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $29.2M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Masterminds Budget
The estimated production budget for Masterminds is $25.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
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Full Cast & Crew of Masterminds
- Zach Galifianakis – David Ghantt
- Owen Wilson – Steve Chambers
- Kristen Wiig – Kelly Campbell
- Kate McKinnon – Jandice
- Leslie Jones – Agent Scanlon
Top Highlights
Zach GalifianakisDavid Ghantt
Owen WilsonSteve Chambers
Kristen WiigKelly Campbell
Kate McKinnonJandice
Leslie JonesAgent Scanlon
Jason SudeikisMike McKinney
Mary Elizabeth EllisMichelle Chambers
Ken MarinoDoug
Karsten FriskeCort Chambers
Dallas EdwardsKen Chambers
Where to Watch Masterminds Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
fuboTV
Paramount+ Amazon Channel
Paramount+ Roku Premium Channel
Paramount Plus Premium🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Fandango At Home
Plex🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeParents Guide & Age Rating
Masterminds is rated PG-13. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.8/10, and global collection metrics, Masterminds stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2016 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Masterminds movie hit or flop?
Masterminds has received mixed reviews with a 5.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Masterminds worth watching?
Masterminds is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Action, Comedy, Crime movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Masterminds online?
Masterminds is currently available for streaming on fuboTV. You can also check for it on platforms like fuboTV, Paramount+ Amazon Channel, Paramount+ Roku Premium Channel, Paramount Plus Premium depending on your region.
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How Masterminds Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Masterminds
**Man tends to do crazy stuffs for a woman, but stealing $17m is too crazy.** The film reminded me 'Pain & Gain', only for inspiring from the real and being the comedy flicks. Other than that there's nothing in common between them. I have been expecting a lot from Zack since 'The Hangover', but it was always the near missed opportunities. I'm not saying this was his much needed breakthrough, but quite enjoyable film. An honest man who worked long enough as a guard for a bank, was approached by his ex colleague and her men with an offer. Since he was madly in love with her, he could not say no to it, despite he already got engaged to another woman. As planned the heist goes on and once it was done, he was ditched and ratted out. Now on the run, how he responds to it and the following events decides his fate. Not a great comedy nor a heist film, but it had its moments. The casting was good and it was Zack's show. The rest of them were not into that much, except in the final act. Jason Sudeikis was a bonus. His appearance added more fun. Now I know why Jim Carrey opted out. Owen Wilson's part was not good enough in such a small role, he did good though. Watching it for timepass is fine or even for beyond that seems not a bad try. _7/10_
This on-again, off-again comedy should probably be funnier than it is but it suffers from the same plague inflicting many comedies today: relying too much on over-the-top, stupid bits.
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
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