Review of Henry's Crime (2010) by Rohan D — 21 Nov 2012

Henry Torne(Keanu Reeves), a tollbooth operator, lives with his wife Debbie(Judy Greer), their only point of contention being their childlessness. In all other ways, Henry could be considered a nice guy. For example, when his friend Eddie(Fisher Stevens) comes calling with his sick pal, Henry agrees to take his place on their softball team. Except it is not a softball team but a bank robbery. Henry is sent to prison which Max(James Caan) enjoys very much for three years when he does not give up any names. When Henry gets out, he finds his wife has moved on and he gets hit by a car driven by Julie(Vera Farmiga), an actress and lotto spokesperson. Since it is unclear whether or not he hit his head, it is hard to judge his big idea fairly. Even then, he is going need a little help...

Simultaneously too long and with an abrupt ending, "Henry's Crime" is otherwise a moderately appealing and off-beat heist comedy. Instead of taking advantage of its economically depressed setting of Buffalo, NY by showing people working hard to scrape by, the movie strangely enough has a stated theme of how people fail through a lack of ambition. To be honest, Keanu Reeves is perfect as a man sleepwalking through life.(Whether that is a compliment or sarcasm is up to you.) At least, the ever versatile Vera Farmiga is on hand to brighten the proceedings while James Caan is fun to watch.