Going in Style

In 'Going in Style,' Morgan Freeman delivers a charming and nuanced performance as Willie Davis, a lovable and clever retiree who teams up with his friends to execute a bank heist. Freeman's portrayal balances warmth, wit, and a touch of rebellion, showcasing his ability to blend humor with gravitas. Compared to his iconic roles such as Red in 'The Shawshank Redemption' or God in 'Bruce Almighty,' Freeman's Willie is grounded in everyday struggles, reflecting a relatable resilience. A trivia fact: Morgan Freeman was actually born in Memphis, Tennessee, and has a personal passion for aviation, holding a pilot's license, which contrasts with his grounded role in this film.

In the movie 'Going in Style' (2017), Michael Caine plays the character Joe, a retired worker who, along with his two friends, plans a bank heist to secure their financial future. This role fits into Caine's career as part of his later work where he often portrays wise, seasoned characters who display a mix of cunning, warmth, and resilience. Unlike some of his earlier iconic roles, such as in 'The Italian Job' or 'Alfie,' which highlighted his charisma and charm in younger, more action-oriented or dramatic settings, Joe's character in 'Going in Style' stands out for its blend of humor and poignancy, showcasing Caine's ability to bring depth and relatability to a more lighthearted yet heartfelt narrative. The performance is notable for its mature perspective on friendship and aging, resonating with audiences through its balance of comedy and emotional sincerity, which underscores Caine's versatility and enduring appeal in his late career.

Alan Arkin starred in the 2017 film 'Going in Style' as one of three lifelong friends who plan a bank heist after their pension funds are frozen. His performance was highly praised for its blend of humor and heartfelt emotion, bringing a unique charm and depth to his character that resonated with audiences. What made Arkin's portrayal distinctive was his ability to balance comedic timing with the vulnerability of an older man facing financial insecurity, making the film both entertaining and touching. A lesser-known fact behind the scenes is that Arkin improvised several lines during the heist planning scenes, contributing to the natural, spontaneous feel of the camaraderie among the trio.

Ann-Margret delivers a spirited and charming performance as Annie Santori in 'Going in Style,' infusing the character with a delightful mix of warmth and tenacity that stands out amidst the film's comedic heist narrative. Unlike some of her earlier, more sultry roles in the 1960s, such as in 'Viva Las Vegas,' here she embraces a mature, nuanced presence that underscores her versatility as an actress. A trivia fact: Ann-Margret's real first name is Ann-Margret Olsson, and she famously earned a Golden Globe for her debut performance in 'Pocketful of Miracles' (1961).

Fans of John Ortiz will appreciate his role in 'Going in Style' because he brings his trademark grounded and heartfelt performance to the character, blending humor and sincerity seamlessly. Unlike his iconic role in 'Silver Linings Playbook,' where he portrayed a more intense and emotionally complex figure, in 'Going in Style,' Ortiz's character allows him to showcase a lighter, more comedic side, engaging audiences with charm and warmth. An interesting detail about his casting is that Ortiz was chosen for his natural chemistry with the veteran actors, which helped create an authentic camaraderie that is central to the film's appeal.

Fans of Peter Serafinowicz will appreciate his role in 'Going in Style' because it showcases his trademark dry wit and comedic timing, reminiscent of his iconic performance as the voice of Darth Maul in 'Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace'. While 'Going in Style' offers a more grounded, character-driven comedy, Serafinowicz brings a subtle, nuanced humor that fans recognize and love. An interesting detail is that he improvised some of his lines on set, adding a layer of spontaneity that enriched his character's charm and made his scenes stand out.