Watch Breaking the Bank
- NR
- 2016
- 1 hr 46 min
-
4.8 (1,004)
Breaking the Bank is a 2014 British comedy film directed by Vadim Jean and starring Kelsey Grammer, John Michael Higgins, and Sonya Cassidy. The story follows Charles Bunbury (played by Grammer), a high-ranking bank executive who is tasked with saving his company from financial ruin by any means necessary. Charles Bunbury is the CEO of the prestigious Union Standard Bank, a venerable institution in the world of finance. But despite its long-standing reputation, the bank is in danger of collapsing due to mismanagement and risky investments. In a desperate bid to save his company, Charles turns to a team of eccentric employees with questionable ethics to manipulate the stock market. Charles and his team fabricate news stories, stage protests, and even pay off politicians to create a false impression of the bank's strength.
On the opposing end is the U.S. billionaire investor, Theodore Omert (played by Higgins), who has taken a short position on Union Standard Bank's stock, betting that it will collapse. Omert is a ruthless businessman who is determined to feast on the bank's downfall and reap massive profits. The stakes escalate as Charles and Theodore engage in a battle of wits, each trying to outmaneuver the other and come out on top.
The movie also introduces the character of Penelope (played by Cassidy), a young and idealistic PR employee who is torn between her loyalty to Charles and her conscience. As the battle between Charles and Theodore intensifies, Penelope becomes increasingly disillusioned with the shady tactics employed by Union Standard Bank and seeks to expose the truth.
Breaking the Bank features excellent performances from the cast, particularly Kelsey Grammer, who portrays Charles Bunbury with a mix of charm, wit, and desperation. John Michael Higgins is equally impressive as Theodore Omert, bringing a cold, calculating edge to his character. Sonya Cassidy delivers a solid performance as the conflicted Penelope, adding a touch of humanity to the high-octane corporate world.
The film's humor is a blend of slapstick comedy and wry satire, with clever one-liners and gags sprinkled throughout. The script is well-written, and the pacing is tight, keeping the audience engaged and invested in the action. The movie also showcases the cutthroat nature of the banking world and the impact it has on individual lives.
Breaking the Bank is a refreshing take on the classic battle between good and evil, with the added twist of high finance thrown in. The movie is gripping, entertaining and well worth a watch for anyone who enjoys a good comedy with a message.
Breaking the Bank is a 2016 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 46 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.8.