Kelly Reichardt’s The Mastermind has captivated audiences and critics alike since its Palme d’Or nomination at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. This gripping crime drama set in 1970s Massachusetts tells the story of an ordinary carpenter turned art thief, exploring themes of desperation, deception, and the fragile American dream.
Released through Mubi on October 17, 2025, the film features a stellar ensemble led by Josh O’Connor, Alana Haim, and veteran character actors Hope Davis and Bill Camp. Let’s dive into the cast that brings this compelling heist story to life.
The Mastermind Main Cast & Characters
| Actor | Character | Role Description |
|---|---|---|
| Josh O’Connor | James “J.B.” Mooney | Unemployed carpenter turned art thief |
| Alana Haim | Terri Mooney | J.B.’s wife caught in emotional turmoil |
| Hope Davis | Sarah Mooney | J.B.’s mother who unknowingly funds the heist |
| Bill Camp | Judge William Mooney | J.B.’s strict father with moral conservatism |
| John Magaro | Fred | College friend who shelters J.B. as a fugitive |
| Gaby Hoffmann | Maude | Supporting character |
Josh O’Connor’s Transformative Lead Performance
Emmy winner Josh O’Connor delivers a career-defining performance as James Blaine “J.B.” Mooney, a jobless carpenter who orchestrates an art heist at a local museum. Born May 20, 1990, O’Connor first gained recognition as Larry Durrell in The Durrells and won the BIFA Award for God’s Own Country (2017).
His portrayal of Prince Charles in The Crown (2019-2020) earned him global stardom and an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor. Recent successes include La Chimera (2023) and the tennis drama Challengers (2024). O’Connor’s upcoming slate includes the highly anticipated Knives Out 3: Wake Up Dead Man and Steven Spielberg’s untitled 2026 project.
Alana Haim’s Emotional Anchor
Grammy-nominated musician Alana Haim plays Terri Mooney, J.B.’s wife who becomes the emotional center of the story. Following her stunning acting debut in Paul Thomas Anderson’s Licorice Pizza (2021), which earned her Golden Globe and BAFTA nominations, Haim continues to impress critics with her naturalistic screen presence.
As a member of the pop-rock trio Haim, she brings a unique artistic sensibility to the role. She’ll next appear in The Drama alongside Zendaya and Robert Pattinson.
Veteran Powerhouses: Hope Davis & Bill Camp
Hope Davis portrays Sarah Mooney, J.B.’s mother who unwittingly provides financial support for his criminal enterprise. The Golden Globe nominee (American Splendor) and Tony-nominated actress brings decades of experience from acclaimed work in Succession, In Treatment, and About Schmidt.
Bill Camp delivers another memorable performance as Judge William Mooney, J.B.’s stern father whose career in law enforcement creates devastating irony. The Emmy-nominated actor (The Night Of, Presumed Innocent) has established himself through powerful supporting roles in 12 Years a Slave, Joker, and The Queen’s Gambit.
John Magaro’s Reichardt Reunion
John Magaro, a frequent Kelly Reichardt collaborator since First Cow (2019), plays Fred, the college friend who shelters the fugitive J.B. Born February 16, 1983, Magaro has built an impressive filmography including The Big Short, Past Lives, and Showing Up.
His chemistry with Reichardt’s distinctive filmmaking style makes him an invaluable presence in The Mastermind.
The Supporting Ensemble
The film’s depth comes from a talented supporting cast including:
- Gaby Hoffmann as Maude
- Eli Gelb as Guy Hickey
- Cole Doman as Larry Duffy
- Javion Allen as Ronnie Gibson
- Amanda Plummer as Louise
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The Story Behind the Heist
Set in Framingham, Massachusetts during the 1970s, The Mastermind follows J.B. Mooney’s desperate plan to steal four paintings by artist Arthur Dove from a local museum. When an accomplice is caught and reveals J.B. as the mastermind, everything unravels. The film transforms into a tense fugitive drama as J.B. flees with his young son, making a desperate attempt to escape consequences.
Director Kelly Reichardt explores the psychological toll of crime and questions whether survival justifies crossing moral boundaries. Her signature slow-burn approach creates an intimate portrait of American desperation.
Critical Acclaim and Festival Success
After premiering at Cannes where it competed for the prestigious Palme d’Or, The Mastermind continued its festival run at the New York Film Festival before its theatrical release. Critics praised Reichardt’s nuanced direction and O’Connor’s layered performance, cementing the film as one of 2025’s most important independent releases.
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FAQs
Q: Is The Mastermind based on a true story?
A: While The Mastermind is not directly based on a specific true story, Kelly Reichardt drew inspiration from actual art heist cases and the economic struggles of 1970s America. The character of J.B. Mooney and the Arthur Dove painting theft are fictional creations, but Reichardt’s meticulous research into museum security, criminal psychology, and period-accurate details lends the film remarkable authenticity. The director is known for grounding her fictional narratives in historical and social reality.
Q: Where can I watch The Mastermind?
A: The Mastermind is available exclusively through Mubi, the curated streaming platform specializing in independent and arthouse cinema. The film was released on October 17, 2025, following its theatrical run. Mubi offers a subscription-based model where subscribers can access a rotating selection of hand-picked films. The platform is known for championing critically acclaimed independent films like Reichardt’s work, making it the perfect home for this intimate heist drama.
