Mel Gibson film fans ‘rewatched over and over’ flies up Netflix chart | Films | Entertainment

Netflix has just added a highly praised period thriller to its roster, and it’s rapidly become one of the most viewed new additions on the streaming platform.

The film previously soared to the number two position on Netflix‘s film chart, and currently holds fourth place as of Monday, 2nd March.

It’s even outperforming the blockbuster KPop Demon Hunters, which has consistently featured in the rankings since its release last summer, as well as recent arrivals Cellar Door, The Last Voyage of the Demeter and Accused.

With an impressive 74 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes, and an even more promising 80 percent audience rating, Bandit is certainly worth a look if it hasn’t already grabbed your attention.

Featuring Hollywood legend Mel Gibson, alongside Josh Duhamel and Elisha Cuthbert, this historical crime drama follows the exploits of career criminal Gilbert Galvan Jr (played by Duhamel), who breaks free from a Michigan prison in the 1980s to start afresh in Canada, reports the Mirror.

Assuming the guise of a security analyst, Galvan embarks on a nationwide spree, robbing multiple cities each day, pilfering from a record 59 banks and jewellery stores, and earning himself the nickname ‘The Flying Bandit’.

Lethal Weapon star Gibson takes on the role of mob loan shark Tommy Kay, aiding Galvan’s heists to become increasingly audacious, whilst Cuthbert plays Galvan’s love interest Andrea, a social worker oblivious to his illicit activities.

Drawing from an extraordinary true story, audiences have remained captivated by Bandit since its initial premiere in 2022.

One five-star review from a Rotten Tomatoes user gushed: “Enjoyed this true crime film from start to finish. It’s been awhile since I last loved a true story but have rewatched this so many times.

“Great characters, writing, and one where you really wish in reality life worked out better for our Bandit hero.”

Another viewer who has revisited the film numerous times agreed: “A truly excellent, moving, and funny crime caper, that works even better on second watch.”

“Clever, funny and surprisingly tender at times, it checks all the boxes for not just an excellent crime biopic, but an excellent movie period,” a further commenter stated.

Acclaim continued on IMDb where one particularly passionate review said: “Absolutely loved this movie. It was very suspenseful. I was at the edge of my seat the whole movie.”

Whilst a final user wrote: “The difference between this story and the average heist movie is the raw and vulnerable connection you feel to the characters and their stories. It’s not just the excitement of the chase, but it’s the why behind the chase and that is so uncommon.

“It truly shows the dynamic story telling behind this movie. My heart strings were not just tugged but yanked.

“I knew why I wanted the lead to win and it was more than just because he was the lead. Not to mention there’s so many genuinely funny moments in here. The acting (specifically by the lead) is truly phenomenal and this is a beautiful story that has to be seen!”

Ideal for those who enjoy other con artist thrillers like Catch Me If You Can and The Talented Mr Ripley, ensure you reserve a spot for Bandit on your streaming schedule this week.

Bandit is available to stream on Netflix.

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