I have a love-hate relationship with the punishing nature of most of filmmaker Darren Aronofsky’s work, so when I saw he was making a seemingly lighter crime caper set in 1998 New York City, I was willing to give it a shot.

While “Caught Stealing” is definitely lighter than most of Aronofsky’s films, it still has a very dark edge that aligns with his previous work. A lot of the physical and psychological carnage that dominates this film’s story is at times punishing, and it is at odds with some tonal shifts that want to make “Caught Stealing” into a fun romp.

Some folks seem to like these tonal jumps, but I do not. It feels like two different movies and I cannot say I really enjoyed either one.

I will admit I was skeptical when I saw the marketing for “Caught Stealing” making me think it might be a fun effort from Aronofsky. My skepticism was well placed, even if this is the most fun I’ve had watching an Aronofsky film.

Aside from being willing to experience something new from Aronofsky, I also came to “Caught Stealing” for Zoë Kravitz. She and the cat at the center of the story are what kept me engaged with the movie.

I am still not convinced Austin Butler, the star of “Caught Stealing,” is a good actor. He is very good at staring off and reacting, but I never fully buy anything deeper from him, in this movie or elsewhere.

Overall, “Caught Stealing” is a big mixed bag of a film. If you are at all curious about it or any of the people involved in making it, you should see it. Otherwise, it is not a must see.

Rating: 3/5