Finding Steve McQueen Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A bunch of guys who really like Steve McQueen try to rob Nixon’s secret stash but mostly end up falling in love and getting caught.

🍿 Finding Steve McQueen: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Setup: 1980 and Flashbacks

The film opens in 1980 with Harry Barber recounting his story to his girlfriend, Molly, in a diner. The narrative then frequently shifts to flashbacks of the early 1970s, setting the stage for a daring heist. We’re introduced to Harry’s fascination with Steve McQueen and his dreams of a life of adventure, contrasting with his mundane reality.

The Heist: Nixon’s Secret Fund

Inspired by his idol, Harry gets involved with a group of thieves from Youngstown, Ohio, who plan to steal $30 million from President Richard Nixon’s secret fund. The money, hidden in a California bank, is supposedly illegal contributions and blackmail money. The heist is meticulously planned, playing on the idea that the ‘dirty’ money wouldn’t be actively pursued.

FBI Investigation and Pursuit

As the heist unfolds, FBI agents Howard Lambert and W. Mark Felt (famously known as “Deep Throat” from the Watergate scandal) begin their investigation. The film depicts their pursuit of the thieves, highlighting the challenges and unexpected twists in their path. The investigation intensifies as the FBI pieces together the evidence, closing in on the gang.

Harry’s Double Life

Throughout the planning and execution of the heist, Harry attempts to maintain a normal life with Molly. He hides his involvement and struggles with the deception, causing tension in their relationship. Harry’s attempts to balance his criminal activities with his desire for a stable life create a compelling internal conflict.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Harry Barber (Travis Fimmel): A Steve McQueen-obsessed Vietnam vet involved in a heist to steal Nixon’s slush fund.
• Molly Murphy (Rachael Taylor): Harry’s girlfriend, who is initially unaware of his criminal activities.
• Howard Lambert (Forest Whitaker): The determined FBI agent leading the investigation into the bank robbery.
• Enzo Rotella (William Fichtner): A professional criminal and the mastermind behind the Nixon’s slush fund heist.
• Pauly Callahan (Louis Lombardi): Part of the crew from Youngstown.
• Tommy Barber (Jake Weary): Harry’s younger brother, who is simple, devoted, and also involved in the heist.
• W. Mark Felt (John Finn): The FBI’s Deputy Director, also known as Deep Throat, assisting in the investigation.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Pauly Callahan: “Seems like the President of the United States can do whatever the fuck he wants to do. He’s got the CIA, the FBI, the ATF, and the IRS. It’s like an alphabet soup enema.” – Pauly expresses his frustration and cynicism about Nixon’s power and influence.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $5.5M
• Domestic Gross: $14,244
• Worldwide Gross: $21,905

💥 Finding Steve McQueen Reviews

Personal Review

I found ‘Finding Steve McQueen’ to be a fun, lighthearted watch. It’s not going to win any awards, but it’s an enjoyable take on a true crime story. I especially liked the soundtrack, it really added to the 70s vibe. The performances were solid, and even though the plot was a bit uneven, I was entertained. It was fun to see familiar faces like Forest Whitaker and William Fichtner.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of heist movies”
  • “Viewers interested in true crime stories”
  • “People who enjoy 1970s period pieces”
  • “Those looking for a lighthearted crime film”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Language”
  • “Brief violence”
  • “Thematic elements related to crime and deception”

Professional Reviews

• IMDB: “A breezy, light comedy heist flick based on a true story. Travis Fimmel is good as the likable awkward lead. Charming, that’s a good one-word review. Forest Whitaker is wasted here but Fitchner does his best Fitchner. It’s just light fun but can easily be skipped.
• IMDB: “This movie is a good date flick, by a guy’s standard. Travis Fimmel is OK as the leading man but appears to still be learning. He is supported by a great group of actors. William Fichtner, Forest Whitaker, John Finn, and Molly McQueen are engaging and fun to watch. If this movie didn’t have the Nixon/True story angle, I don’t think it would be as captivating.
• IMDB: “An enjoyable heist movie based on a true story. While it has some weak points, it is still worth a look. The actors each fit their roles beautifully. The 70’s setting feels natural too, always a plus. Based on a real life event from 1972 is noteworthy, but doesn’t get a point, accurate or not. Enjoyable movie overall. Give it a see.

Audience Reactions

The soundtrack really captures the 70s vibe and elevates the viewing experience.: Viewers loved the fun, lighthearted tone and the solid performances from the cast.

Travis Fimmel’s portrayal of Harry Barber is charming and engaging.: Many appreciated the story being based on a true event, despite some inaccuracies.

Overall Consensus: A lighthearted and entertaining heist movie with a great soundtrack and solid performances, even if the plot is somewhat uneven.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film is based on the true story of the United California Bank robbery in 1972, where a group of thieves from Youngstown, Ohio, attempted to steal $30 million from President Nixon’s secret fund.”
• “Travis Fimmel’s character, Harry Barber, is heavily inspired by Steve McQueen. The film incorporates McQueen’s films and persona as a significant element of Barber’s identity and motivations.”
• “The Watergate scandal, which was unfolding around the same time as the robbery, plays a significant backdrop in the film, adding a layer of political intrigue to the heist story.”

🖥️ How to Watch Finding Steve McQueen?

As of October 2024, “Finding Steve McQueen” is available for rent or purchase on various platforms including Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for availability as streaming options may vary by region. Some platforms may also offer it as part of a subscription service.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Finding Steve McQueen, you might like these similar films:

• American Hustle (2013): Both films are crime dramas set in the 1970s, inspired by real events, and feature charismatic con artists and political corruption.
• Ocean’s Eleven (2001): This movie shares the heist movie aspects, with a group of professionals planning and executing a complex robbery.
• Dog Day Afternoon (1975): Based on a true story about a bank robbery gone wrong, this film captures the tense atmosphere and desperate circumstances of a heist in the 1970s.
• Baby Driver (2017): It also features a young protagonist involved in heists, combined with a love story and a killer soundtrack.

🛒 Finding Steve McQueen Related Products

• Steve McQueen: The Essential Collection [Blu-ray]: A must-have for any Steve McQueen fan, featuring some of his most iconic films in high definition.
• 1970s Fashion Costume: Relive the 70s with these costumes.
• Vintage 1970s Movie Poster: Decorate your room with this vintage movie poster.
• Nixonland: The Rise of a President and the Fracturing of America: Book by Rick Perlstein

🎧 Soundtrack

Finding Steve McQueen features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Drivin’ My Life Away” – performed by Eddie Rabbitt
• “Funk #49” – performed by James Gang

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Professional Thieves Plan to Steal the President’s Money From the Most Heavily Guarded Prison

Ever wondered what ‘Finding Steve McQueen’ is all about without committing to the full watch? This recap breaks down the entire plot of the insane heist – it’s like a cheat sheet, but way more entertaining!

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