Sony Pictures has unveiled a thrilling sneak-peek featurette for “Caught Stealing,” an upcoming crime thriller directed by Darren Aronofsky, based on Charlie Huston’s cult noir novel. Set against the turbulent backdrop of 1990s New York City, the film represents a daring addition to Aronofsky’s diverse and intense body of work.
Austin Butler stars as Hank Thompson, a former baseball prodigy turned alcoholic bartender. Hank’s seemingly mundane existence is upended when his punk-rock neighbor, Russ, requests that he care for his house cat, leading him into a perilous underground world. What starts as a simple favor escalates into a harrowing adventure, as Hank finds himself pursued by corrupt police, ruthless Russian mobsters, and a deranged hitman, all due to what’s concealed within the cat’s cage.
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Regina King, Zoë Kravitz, Matt Smith, Liev Schreiber, Vincent D’Onofrio, Griffin Dunne, and Carol Kane, aligning perfectly with the film’s darkly comedic and twisted narrative.
The featurette hints at intense action sequences, including frenetic alleyway chases and brutal barroom confrontations, all immersed in a neon-lit, gritty 90s NYC ambiance. Aronofsky, celebrated for his psychological depth in films like “Requiem for a Dream” and “Black Swan,” appears to merge pulp energy with thrilling grindhouse aesthetics while retaining the psychological complexity that characterizes his filmmaking style.
In an exciting development for fans, Huston himself has penned the screenplay, ensuring that the raw tone of the original novel is authentically represented on the big screen. Butler’s portrayal of Hank promises to be both grizzled and emotionally explosive, marking a compelling evolution from his previously more glamorous roles.
Scheduled for release on August 29, 2025, “Caught Stealing” is set to be an exhilarating cinematic experience, delivering a darkly amusing and violent journey through urban chaos, where survival is less about street smarts and more about staying one step ahead of danger at every turn.
This film may indeed resonate with those who appreciate gritty thrillers, and with Aronofsky at the helm, it’s likely to explore complex themes of transformation and deception, promising a memorable addition to the genre.