Criminal Story Analysis: Plot Summary & Character Arcs
Deep dive into the narrative structure and emotional journey of Criminal.
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2016, Criminal is a Action, Crime, Science Fiction film directed by Ariel Vromen, written by Douglas S. Cook. The narrative delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Kevin Costner as Jerico Stewart.
What Is the Story of Criminal?
In this high-octane feature, Ariel Vromen establishes a narrative structure that follows a classic action blueprint: establishing the protagonist's world, introducing a formidable antagonist, and escalating the stakes. CIA Agent Bill Pope is on a mission to track down a shadowy hacker named 'The Dutchman'. When he gets mysteriously killed, an experimental procedure transfers his memories into a dangerous ex-convict. When he wakes up Pope's memories, his mission is to eliminate The Dutchman before the hacker launches ICBMs and starts World War III. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments for Kevin Costner, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
How Is Criminal Structured?
- Opening Hook: Criminal opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes, introducing Kevin Costner as Jerico Stewart in the midst of conflict. Ariel Vromen wastes no time setting up the action blueprint, and over its 113-minute runtime, the pacing proves deliberate.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Kevin Costner's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The final confrontation provides adequate resolution, with Kevin Costner at the center of the action. Ariel Vromen's staging of the climax raises the stakes to their highest point.