New to On Demand: All the Money in the World

All the Money in the World © 2017 Sony Pictures Entertainment

Money makes the world go around. When you have more money than virtually anyone in the world, everyone wants a piece. In the film All the Money in the World from director Ridley Scott, we figure out just what one wealthy man will pay to keep his grandson alive.

That man is J. Paul Getty (Christopher Plummer). Known as one of the richest men in the world, if not the richest, he has accumulated wealth for years. As someone with wealth would attest, having all of the money makes you a target for anyone who is looking to grab some extra cash. When his grandson Paul (Charlie Plummer) is kidnapped, the abductors demand $17 million in ransom.

Unfortunately the kidnappers have approached Paul’s mother Gail (Michelle Williams), who, despite having married a Getty, finds herself split from her husband. And the eldest Getty makes everything clear very quickly: He will part with nothing for the release of the boy.

But he does send one of his best men, Fletcher Chase (Mark Wahlberg), to assist in the search to find his grandson. Fletcher’s mission is equal parts helping Gail and saving the elder Getty the ransom money. As the digging goes on, and Fletcher realizes more about Gail’s situation, his sympathy for her plight increases, and he helps to get to the bottom of the situation.

With what seemed to be a simple kidnapping spiraling out of control, the monetary demand is reduced, and the game changes. Who will win this game of cat and mouse?

I can’t bury the lede on this review. A film that originally starred Kevin Spacey was recast and reshot with Christopher Plummer in the lead role and looks seamless. Plummer is a wonder as the owner of the Getty fortune. He is tough and uncompromising, but portrays small cracks in his harsh exterior that give us a glimpse at the billionaire and his life.

Plummer’s ease in his role is met with a story that has tension rising throughout. As our film progresses, the anticipation builds and, despite the story being very public and known, Scott creates an atmosphere bursting at the seams. We are just waiting for the bubble to explode.

With a cast including Williams and Wahlberg as well, there is never a moment where you feel you are watching less than first-class efforts.

Kudos on the final product that Scott has unveiled for all to see. The effort showcases the master at his craft, and he has now reached an iconic standard few can achieve. The Getty story is fascinating, and this film displays it like few could. No matter how much money anyone may have, it doesn’t always lead to the desired happiness. But you don’t have to have money to know you are richer after enjoying this film.

All the Money in the World is available On Demand beginning April 10. Check your cable system for availability.