The Instigators poster

The Instigators

"Worst. Heist. Ever."

Movie R 2024 1h 42m 6.2 /10
Directed by Doug Liman

Rory and Cobby pair up for what looks like a simple job, only for the scheme to spiral out of control. When the plan collapses, the duo finds themselves fending off more than just the police. They recruit Rory's therapist, a calm observer with an unconventional toolkit, hoping her perspective... Read more

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Streaming availability last verified: February 14, 2026

About The Instigators

Rory and Cobby pair up for what looks like a simple job, only for the scheme to spiral out of control. When the plan collapses, the duo finds themselves fending off more than just the police. They recruit Rory's therapist, a calm observer with an unconventional toolkit, hoping her perspective might salvage the caper. The unlikely trio dodges a maze of red tape and the anger of a ruthless crime lord who wants payback. The movie blends fast talking banter with criminal stakes, letting humor soften the danger while the team learns to trust each other in ways they never anticipated. The result stays witty, tense, and unexpectedly earnest for audiences.

Directed by Doug Liman, this crime comedy is adapted from a story by Chuck MacLean and Casey Affleck. Starring Matt Damon as Rory and Casey Affleck as Cobby, with Ving Rhames and Jack Harlow rounding out ensemble with brisk pace.

The film leans into the odd couple dynamic and satirizes heist tropes while keeping the pace brisk. It probes trust, guilt, and how therapy can intersect with crime, balancing snappy dialogue with awkward misfires and surprising heart. The humor lands through banter and small clashes that reveal each character's flaws.

Awards: As of this writing, no major awards or nominations are listed for The Instigators. The project features star power and a director with a track record, which could translate into future recognition if the film expands its release. For now, awards chatter remains minimal and cautious at this stage globally.

Cultural impact: If the film gains wider release its offbeat premise and the therapist angle could spark conversations about unlikely partnerships under pressure. Memes or quotable lines may circulate online, giving the title a small but growing footprint in fan communities and casual conversations around film clubs and social media.

Details

Release Date
August 02, 2024
Runtime
1h 42m
Rating
R
User Ratings
571 votes
Type
Movie
Genres
Crime, Comedy
Country
United States
Studio
Artists Equity +3 more
Box Office
$11,098
External Links
View on IMDB

Official Trailer

Cast

Matt Damon

Matt Damon

Rory

Casey Affleck

Casey Affleck

Cobby

Ving Rhames

Ving Rhames

Frank Toomey

Jack Harlow

Jack Harlow

Scalvo

Michael Stuhlbarg

Michael Stuhlbarg

Mr. Besegai

Alfred Molina

Alfred Molina

Richie Dechico

Owen Earls

Owen Earls

Charlie Haggerty

Hong Chau

Hong Chau

Dr. Donna Rivera

Natalie Carter

Natalie Carter

Mrs. Haggerty

W

Walter Liebman

Terry

Director: Doug Liman

Written by: Chuck MacLean, Casey Affleck

Frequently Asked Questions

The Instigators is available to stream on Apple TV+. You can also rent or buy it on Amazon Video, Apple iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu.

Yes, The Instigators is available to stream on Apple TV+ with a subscription.

With a rating of 6.2/10 from 571 viewers, The Instigators is considered solid entertainment worth checking out. It's a good pick if you enjoy crime and comedy stories.

Rory and Cobby pair up for what looks like a simple job, only for the scheme to spiral out of control. When the plan collapses, the duo finds themselves fending off more than just the police. They recruit Rory's therapist, a calm observer with an unconventional toolkit, hoping her perspective mig...

Matt Damon stars as Rory and Casey Affleck plays Cobby, the unlikely partners in a heist. The movie follows their misadventure as it spirals and they team up with Rory's therapist to stay one step ahead of the law.

Ving Rhames plays Frank Toomey, Jack Harlow plays Scalvo, and Michael Stuhlbarg plays Mr. Besegai. They contribute to the crime comedy dynamic that drives the story.