A high-stakes heist film that divided critics but captured the top box office spot.

Entertainment · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Released in 2010, Takers follows a crew of professional bank robbers whose final, ambitious job spirals into a complex web of betrayal and police pursuit. While the film earned mixed reviews for its script, it remains notable for its intense action sequences and a strong ensemble cast.

Directed by John Luessenhop, Takers centers on a group of specialized thieves led by Gordon Cozier, including members John, A.J., and brothers Jake and Jesse Attica. Their operation is disrupted by the return of Ghost, a former associate who was imprisoned five years earlier. Ghost lures the crew into a high-stakes heist involving a $25 million armored truck convoy, but his true intentions involve double-crossing both his former partners and a group of Russian gangsters.

The film’s central action sequence involves the crew attempting to drop armored trucks into a crater using explosives. The plan falters when a cyclist forces an early detonation, leading to a chaotic gunfight and a desperate escape through the city's subway system. As the narrative unfolds, the crew faces mounting pressure from detectives Jack Welles and Eddie Hatcher, while internal betrayals lead to a violent climax involving a private plane and a final Mexican standoff.

Critical reception for Takers was polarized. On Rotten Tomatoes, only 28% of 113 critics provided positive reviews, with many citing a derivative plot and thin characterization. Conversely, the film performed well commercially, opening at number one at the box office with over $20.5 million in its debut weekend. Stephen King notably praised the film in his 2010 year-end column, highlighting the armored-car heist as a standout action sequence, despite noting that the film's climax strains credulity.

The production garnered several accolades in 2011, including a Best Actor win for Idris Elba and recognition for the location team. While the film is often compared to other heist thrillers like The Taking of Pelham 123, its legacy remains tied to its blend of stylized action and the high-profile ensemble cast, which included Matt Dillon, Paul Walker, and Tip "T.I." Harris.

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