Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

1970s Heist Film 'Mastermind' Premieres Amid Anti-Vietnam Protests

10/22/2025

27 4

Summary

Story summary

The Mastermind is a 1970s heist film by Kelly Reichardt featuring Josh O’Connor as James Blaine Mooney, an unemployed father who robs a Massachusetts museum.
The film draws from the 1972 Worcester Art Museum heist, with artworks stolen at gunpoint, and mirrors that event without harm.
The film features artworks by Arthur Dove and John Singer Sargent and sits amid anti-Vietnam protests.
Mastermind premiered in theaters on October 17, 2025.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Mastermind is a 1970s heist film by Kelly Reichardt featuring Josh O’Connor as James Blaine Mooney, an unemployed father who robs a Massachusetts museum.
The film draws from the 1972 Worcester Art Museum heist, with artworks stolen at gunpoint, and mirrors that event without harm.
The film features artworks by Arthur Dove and John Singer Sargent and sits amid anti-Vietnam protests.
Mastermind premiered in theaters on October 17, 2025.