Friday Flicks: The Thomas Crown Affair

It seems like only a few weeks ago when I was reviewing a movie about art that starred Rene Russo, but here I am yet again. I had heard of The Thomas Crown Affair before, since it is one of my mom's favorite movies, but had only sat down to really watch the whole thing when my mom brought it home from Bookhounds. I absolutely adored it and have been dying to talk about it all week, so here goes!

Acting: 10/10

Pierce Brosnan was born to play Thomas Crown, the larger than life playboy. Rene Russo gives Faye Dunaway, who played Catherine in the original, a run for her money as the level headed and disciplined private detective. Dennis Leary keeps the story grounded as the "average Joe" type who couldn't care less about Crown's billionaire games. Watching the three of them play Crown's cat and mouse game is so intense you find yourself sitting on the edge of your seat.

+2 Bonus Points for Faye Dunaway's cameo as Crown's psychiatrist.

Costuming: 10/10

I'm officially obsessed with Rene Russo's costumes in this movie. Most of her work clothes are so minimalistic and timeless you can still spot variations at NYFW. My personal favorite is her "breaking and entering" outfit of all black and knee high lace up boots, which she makes look less emo and more distinguished. Don't get me started on that sheer dress she wears to the gala. I could probably write an entire story on that.

Set Design: 10/10

The film centers around a heist at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, so it has a lot of interesting settings. The museum, various art world galas, Crown's townhouse that is way too big for one person and his young super-fit butler, and the weekend getaways Crown takes Banning on. Setting the story in New York instead of Boston, like the original, makes the story more fun in my opinion. The plot is already so ridiculous, it makes perfect sense for Crown to have two personal jets for travel and joyriding respectively.

Soundtrack: 10/10

Two words. Nina. Simone. That's all any film needs to acquire the perfect soundtrack. The music oddly fits the parallels in the heist scene; Crown going about his lavish daily routine, while the robbers carry out their Mission Impossible-esqe task.

Final Score: 11/10

It can be a little over the top at times, but the occasional campiness of The Thomas Crown Affair is what keeps it fun and watchable, even today. I did try to watch the original, and while I adore Faye Dunaway, I was unable to finish it because it was so outdated it was a little painful. This version is sleek and timeless, and the perfect rainy day watch.