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Write a comprehensive article on the films directed by Steven Soderbergh. Include detailed plot summaries, box office successes & failures, audience reactions, main actors, studio involved, production costs, etc. Include specific examples of critic reviews and any comments made by the director regarding each film.

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Steven Soderbergh: A Cinematic Journey

Steven Soderbergh is undeniably one of the most innovative and prolific filmmakers of his generation. Renowned for his unique storytelling and visual style, he has crafted films that range from intimate dramas to large-scale epics. This article will explore some of the significant films directed by Soderbergh, diving into their plots, critical and audience receptions, and other relevant details.

1. Sex, Lies, and Videotape (1989)

• Plot Summary: Revolving around the lives of four people, the film deals with themes of fidelity and truth. James Spader plays Graham, a man who films women discussing their intimate experiences.
• Box Office: The film earned $24.7 million, a significant success considering its $1.2 million budget.
• Audience Reaction: The movie was well-received by audiences for its provocative subject matter.
• Main Actors: James Spader, Andie MacDowell, Peter Gallagher, and Laura San Giacomo.
• Studio: Miramax
• Production Cost: Approximately $1.2 million.
• Critic Reviews: Critics praised the film's originality. Roger Ebert said it was “spellbinding.”
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh often remarked how this film, his debut, set the tone for his career, focusing on character-driven stories.

2. Out of Sight (1998)

• Plot Summary: A romantic crime comedy, it follows a career criminal (George Clooney) and a U.S. Marshal (Jennifer Lopez) who become involved.
• Box Office: Grossed $77.7 million globally.
• Audience Reaction: Celebrated for its chemistry between leads and witty script.
• Main Actors: George Clooney, Jennifer Lopez, Ving Rhames, and Don Cheadle.
• Studio: Universal Pictures
• Production Cost: Estimated $48 million.
• Critic Reviews: Many critics praised its stylish approach. The New York Times called it a "spiky blend of humor, drama, and romance."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh expressed his joy working with such a dynamic cast and the challenges of blending different genres.

3. Traffic (2000)

• Plot Summary: An intricate examination of the drug trade from multiple perspectives, including a judge, a drug lord's wife, and undercover agents.
• Box Office: Amassed $208.3 million worldwide.
• Audience Reaction: It was lauded for its gritty portrayal of the drug war.
• Main Actors: Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Benicio Del Toro, and Don Cheadle.
• Studio: USA Films
• Production Cost: About $46 million.
• Critic Reviews: Highly acclaimed, it was noted for its audacious storytelling. Rolling Stone mentioned the film "hits with hurricane force."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh often spoke about how the film was an experiment in presenting multiple narratives and the challenges of such an endeavor.

4. Ocean's Eleven (2001)

• Plot Summary: A charismatic crook (George Clooney) assembles a team to rob three Las Vegas casinos.
• Box Office: A whopping $450.7 million globally.
• Audience Reaction: Audiences loved the ensemble cast and intricate heist plot.
• Main Actors: George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Julia Roberts.
• Studio: Warner Bros.
• Production Cost: Roughly $85 million.
• Critic Reviews: Critics enjoyed its breezy charm. Entertainment Weekly said it had "retro glamour and modern wit."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh often commented on the joys of managing such a big ensemble cast and the charm of old-school heist movies.

This is just a glimpse into Steven Soderbergh's expansive career. Other noteworthy films include The Limey (1999), Contagion (2011), Magic Mike (2012), and Logan Lucky (2017). Across the board, Soderbergh's films are characterized by innovative storytelling, remarkable character development, and an unwavering commitment to the craft of cinema. Whether delving into indie projects or big-budget spectacles, his films consistently spark conversation and push the boundaries of conventional filmmaking.

 

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5. Contagion (2011)

• Plot Summary: This thriller is an eerily realistic portrayal of a deadly pandemic, showcasing the global chaos and race for a cure.
• Box Office: It grossed over $136 million worldwide.
• Audience Reaction: Given its timely nature, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the film saw renewed interest and was praised for its realism.
• Main Actors: Matt Damon, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Marion Cotillard.
• Studio: Warner Bros.
• Production Cost: Around $60 million.
• Critic Reviews: The film was celebrated for its scientific accuracy. The Guardian lauded it for its "chilling realism."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh often commented on the extensive research that went into the movie and the importance of a realistic portrayal.

6. Magic Mike (2012)

• Plot Summary: This drama-comedy gives a behind-the-scenes look at the world of male stripping, focusing on the life of Magic Mike (Channing Tatum).
• Box Office: The film was a massive hit, raking in $167 million globally.
• Audience Reaction: While many came for the entertainment, they stayed for the engaging narrative and character development.
• Main Actors: Channing Tatum, Alex Pettyfer, Matthew McConaughey, and Cody Horn.
• Studio: Warner Bros.
• Production Cost: A mere $7 million.
• Critic Reviews: The film surprised many critics with its depth. Variety said it had "brawn and brains."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh mentioned that behind the glitz and glamour, he wanted to explore the dreams and desires of everyday people.

7. Logan Lucky (2017)

• Plot Summary: Dubbed "Ocean's 7-Eleven," this film is a comedic heist story set against the backdrop of a NASCAR race in North Carolina.
• Box Office: Earning over $48 million globally.
• Audience Reaction: The film's offbeat humor and unique characters were highly appreciated.
• Main Actors: Channing Tatum, Adam Driver, Riley Keough, and Daniel Craig.
• Studio: Bleecker Street & Fingerprint Releasing.
• Production Cost: Estimated $29 million.
• Critic Reviews: The film's refreshing take on the heist genre was applauded. The Hollywood Reporter called it "a high-spirited, low-down blast."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh discussed returning from his brief retirement to make the film, emphasizing his love for unique heist stories and complex characters.

Steven Soderbergh's filmography is a testament to his versatility and commitment to storytelling. He seamlessly transitions between genres, always injecting fresh perspectives. From intimate dramas to sprawling ensemble pieces, Soderbergh remains an essential voice in contemporary cinema. Over the years, he has not only garnered critical acclaim but has also influenced a new generation of filmmakers with his unique approach to the medium. His films, diverse in nature but consistently high in quality, cement his legacy as one of the leading directors of his time.

 

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8. Side Effects (2013)

• Plot Summary: A psychological thriller that delves into the world of pharmaceuticals, Side Effects revolves around a woman named Emily who experiences disturbing side effects after taking an anti-depressant.
• Box Office: Grossed approximately $63 million worldwide.
• Audience Reaction: The film was praised for its twists and turns, keeping viewers on edge.
• Main Actors: Rooney Mara, Jude Law, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Channing Tatum.
• Studio: Open Road Films.
• Production Cost: Around $30 million.
• Critic Reviews: Critics were taken by the film's suspenseful nature. The Washington Post described it as "a sleek, cunningly plotted trip in the world of psychopharmaceuticals."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh was interested in exploring the gray areas of the pharmaceutical industry and mental health, and how they intersect with personal motives and the criminal justice system.

9. Unsane (2018)

• Plot Summary: Shot entirely on an iPhone, this psychological horror follows a woman who believes she sees her stalker everywhere and ends up involuntarily committed to a mental institution.
• Box Office: Accumulated over $14 million worldwide.
• Audience Reaction: The film received mixed reactions; some praised its experimental nature while others felt it lacked depth.
• Main Actors: Claire Foy, Joshua Leonard, Jay Pharoah, and Juno Temple.
• Studio: Bleecker Street.
• Production Cost: An impressively low $1.2 million.
• Critic Reviews: Critics were polarized but many appreciated Soderbergh's ambition. The New Yorker said, "The movie's real terror lies in its portrayal of systemic abuse."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh often talked about the freedom and challenges of shooting entirely on an iPhone, stating it was both liberating and restrictive in different capacities.

10. The Laundromat (2019)

• Plot Summary: A dark comedy based on the Panama Papers leak, the film offers an insight into shell companies and the wealthy individuals behind them.
• Box Office: Numbers weren't stellar, but it primarily streamed on Netflix.
• Audience Reaction: Received mixed reviews with some praising its ambition while others felt it was disjointed.
• Main Actors: Meryl Streep, Gary Oldman, Antonio Banderas, and Sharon Stone.
• Studio: Netflix.
• Production Cost: Estimated at $20 million.
• Critic Reviews: Critics were divided. While some found it informative and engaging, others felt it tried to tackle too much. The Atlantic mentioned, "It's an odd, awkward, occasionally arresting film that never really finds its tone."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh was drawn to the script because of the global implications of the Panama Papers. He aimed to shed light on the convoluted world of finance in a digestible manner.

Across decades in the film industry, Steven Soderbergh has continued to reinvent himself, never shying away from trying new methods or delving into varied genres. He remains a beacon for indie filmmakers and an inspiration for Hollywood's best, showcasing the magic that can be created when one remains true to the art form and not just the business of cinema. As the industry evolves, one can be certain that Soderbergh will be at the forefront, pioneering new ways to tell stories and captivating audiences worldwide.

 

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11. High Flying Bird (2019)

• Plot Summary: Set during an NBA lockout, the story delves into the power dynamics of the sports industry, as a sports agent pitches a controversial opportunity to a rookie player.
• Box Office: As a Netflix original, direct box office numbers aren't applicable. But it was prominently featured on the streaming platform.
• Audience Reaction: The film's thoughtful examination of sports, race, and commerce resonated with many.
• Main Actors: André Holland, Melvin Gregg, Zazie Beetz, and Bill Duke.
• Studio: Netflix.
• Production Cost: Estimated around $2 million.
• Critic Reviews: The film was appreciated for its sharp script and timely themes. Vulture praised it, stating: "It's a slam dunk."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh spoke about the intersection of sports and commerce, highlighting the influence of streaming platforms in modern cinema.

12. Let Them All Talk (2020)

• Plot Summary: A renowned author goes on a journey with old friends, leading to self-discovery, reconciliation, and a realization of the passage of time.
• Box Office: Premiered on HBO Max, so traditional box office metrics aren't available.
• Audience Reaction: The film's leisurely pace and character-driven narrative were both appreciated and critiqued.
• Main Actors: Meryl Streep, Dianne Wiest, Candice Bergen, Lucas Hedges, and Gemma Chan.
• Studio: HBO Max.
• Production Cost: The exact budget isn't disclosed, but its limited locations (primarily aboard the Queen Mary 2) suggest a modest budget.
• Critic Reviews: Critics praised the film's performances and naturalistic dialogue. The New York Times said it was "a film of silences and small gestures."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh emphasized the joy of working with such a talented cast and the organic nature of the dialogue and interactions in the film.

13. No Sudden Move (2021)

• Plot Summary: Set in 1950s Detroit, a group of small-time criminals gets embroiled in a larger conspiracy.
• Box Office: Premiered on HBO Max, eschewing traditional box office results.
• Audience Reaction: The noir-ish tale and ensemble cast were broadly appreciated.
• Main Actors: Don Cheadle, Benicio Del Toro, David Harbour, Jon Hamm, and Brendan Fraser.
• Studio: HBO Max.
• Production Cost: Not disclosed but given the period setting and ensemble cast, it's likely on the higher side.
• Critic Reviews: Critics lauded its atmosphere and layered plot. IndieWire described it as "a slick, twisty yarn."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh often reflected on the challenges and rewards of crafting a period piece, especially one with such a dense plot and varied characters.

Steven Soderbergh's illustrious career is characterized by both his prolific output and his willingness to experiment. Whether he's shooting on an iPhone, exploring the intricacies of the pharmaceutical industry, or revisiting classic genres with a fresh perspective, Soderbergh remains at the vanguard of filmmaking. His passion for the craft and his relentless curiosity ensure that each new project offers something distinctive, making him a filmmaker whose work is consistently anticipated by audiences and critics alike. As the film industry continues to morph in the digital age, Soderbergh's innovative spirit promises many more compelling stories on the horizon.

 

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14. Sex, Lies, and Videotape (1989)

• Plot Summary: Soderbergh's directorial debut, this drama centers around a man who films women discussing their sexual experiences, leading to revelations and complexities amongst a circle of acquaintances.
• Box Office: The film grossed over $24 million domestically and became a sensation.
• Audience Reaction: Viewers lauded its unique storytelling and deep character exploration.
• Main Actors: James Spader, Andie MacDowell, Peter Gallagher, and Laura San Giacomo.
• Studio: Miramax Films.
• Production Cost: A modest $1.2 million.
• Critic Reviews: Hailed as a fresh, groundbreaking indie film. Roger Ebert remarked, "It’s about four people who are nice, who mean well, and who hurt one another out of the careless depths of their wounded self-esteem.”
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh, reflecting on his debut, acknowledged the incredible success it garnered and how it was instrumental in launching his career.

15. The Limey (1999)

• Plot Summary: A British ex-con travels to Los Angeles to avenge his daughter's death, unraveling a web of crime and deceit.
• Box Office: Earned about $3.2 million in the domestic box office.
• Audience Reaction: While not a massive commercial success, the film was respected for its unique editing style and compelling narrative.
• Main Actors: Terence Stamp, Peter Fonda, and Lesley Ann Warren.
• Studio: Artisan Entertainment.
• Production Cost: Around $10 million.
• Critic Reviews: Praise was particularly directed at Terence Stamp's performance. Empire Magazine called it "A subtle, sophisticated, and deeply satisfying film.”
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh discussed the non-linear approach to storytelling in the movie, emphasizing how he aimed to create a sense of memory and reflection.

16. Full Frontal (2002)

• Plot Summary: An ensemble drama that blurs the line between reality and fiction, portraying a day in the life of several interconnected people in Los Angeles.
• Box Office: Grossed around $2.5 million worldwide.
• Audience Reaction: The film received mixed reactions, with some praising its experimental style and others finding it disjointed.
• Main Actors: Julia Roberts, David Duchovny, Blair Underwood, and Catherine Keener.
• Studio: Miramax Films.
• Production Cost: Estimated at $2 million.
• Critic Reviews: Responses ranged from admiration of its ambition to confusion over its narrative. The Los Angeles Times noted, "It is simultaneously intriguing and self-indulgent.”
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh described the project as a "narrative experiment" where he sought to break conventional storytelling molds.

In sum, Steven Soderbergh's films, even when they venture into challenging or experimental territory, reflect a director deeply committed to pushing the boundaries of cinema. Over the years, Soderbergh has not only demonstrated a wide range in terms of genre but also a keen understanding of the human condition, regardless of the scenario. Whether his movies connect immediately with audiences or find appreciation later as cult classics, Soderbergh's mark on the film industry is undeniable and lasting.

 

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17. Solaris (2002)

• Plot Summary: A remake of Andrei Tarkovsky's 1972 film, this science fiction drama revolves around a psychologist sent to a space station orbiting a mysterious planet to determine the cause behind the crew's insanity.
• Box Office: The movie grossed around $30 million globally.
• Audience Reaction: While visually captivating, some viewers found it slow-paced and introspective, compared to other mainstream sci-fi films.
• Main Actors: George Clooney and Natascha McElhone.
• Studio: 20th Century Fox.
• Production Cost: Approximately $47 million.
• Critic Reviews: Critics were divided; while some appreciated the film's contemplative nature, others found it tedious. The Guardian described it as "a thoughtful, evocative adaptation.”
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh wanted to explore human relationships, memory, and grief through the lens of science fiction, emphasizing the emotional over the technical.

18. Bubble (2005)

• Plot Summary: A drama that unfolds in a small town, it deals with the implications of a love triangle that leads to a tragic crime.
• Box Office: Earned roughly $200,000 - it was intentionally released simultaneously in theaters, on DVD, and TV.
• Audience Reaction: The film was more of an indie experiment and found a niche audience.
• Main Actors: Debbie Doebereiner, Omar Cowan, and Dustin Ashley.
• Studio: Magnolia Pictures.
• Production Cost: About $1.6 million.
• Critic Reviews: Critics respected its minimalist approach. The New York Times commented on its "startling intimacy."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh was very interested in the simultaneous release model, trying to redefine how audiences could view new movies.

19. Haywire (2011)

• Plot Summary: A fast-paced action-thriller centered around a black ops super soldier who seeks revenge after being set up and betrayed during a mission.
• Box Office: Grossed over $33 million worldwide.
• Audience Reaction: The film was praised for its raw action sequences and MMA fighter Gina Carano's performance.
• Main Actors: Gina Carano, Ewan McGregor, Michael Fassbender, and Channing Tatum.
• Studio: Relativity Media.
• Production Cost: Estimated $23 million.
• Critic Reviews: The film was lauded for its no-nonsense approach to action. The AV Club praised it, saying, "Haywire comes out gunning and never lets up."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh expressed his intent to showcase action sequences in a realistic, unadulterated manner, praising Carano's authentic presence in the fight scenes.

20. Behind the Candelabra (2013)

• Plot Summary: This biographical drama chronicles the last decade of the famous pianist Liberace and his secret relationship with young Scott Thorson.
• Audience Reaction: Viewers were captivated by the flamboyant portrayal of Liberace and the film's deep dive into his personal life.
• Main Actors: Michael Douglas, Matt Damon, Dan Aykroyd, and Rob Lowe.
• Studio: HBO Films.
• Critic Reviews: The performances of Douglas and Damon were highly praised. The Guardian called it "outrageously entertaining."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh often spoke about the challenges of capturing the extravagance and emotional nuances of Liberace's life, emphasizing the complex character behind the glitz.

Soderbergh's expansive filmography showcases his adaptability and innovative spirit. His continual urge to experiment, whether in narrative forms, genres, or distribution methods, sets him apart in Hollywood's ever-evolving landscape. Despite the diverse genres and themes he tackles, a consistent thread in Soderbergh's work is a keen observation of human nature and relationships, making his films timeless and resonant.

 

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21. The Good German (2006)

• Plot Summary: Set post-World War II, this black-and-white film follows a U.S. Army war correspondent as he becomes embroiled in a murder mystery while searching for his former lover.
• Box Office: The film grossed around $5.9 million globally.
• Audience Reaction: Its stylistic homage to classic Hollywood was both praised and criticized for potentially overshadowing its plot.
• Main Actors: George Clooney, Cate Blanchett, and Tobey Maguire.
• Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures.
• Production Cost: Roughly $32 million.
• Critic Reviews: While visuals and performances were commended, some found the plot convoluted. Variety lauded its “technical wizardry” while pointing out its narrative shortcomings.
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh wanted to recreate the look and feel of 1940s cinema, emphasizing both its limitations and charm.

22. Che (2008)

• Plot Summary: A two-part biopic about the life of revolutionary Che Guevara, covering his role in the Cuban Revolution and his later expedition in Bolivia.
• Box Office: Cumulatively, the two parts grossed over $40 million worldwide.
• Audience Reaction: The film's length and detailed approach received mixed responses, though Benicio Del Toro's portrayal of Che was widely praised.
• Main Actors: Benicio Del Toro, Demián Bichir, and Rodrigo Santoro.
• Studio: IFC Films and Wild Bunch.
• Production Cost: Around $58 million for both parts combined.
• Critic Reviews: Critics admired its detailed portrayal, though some found it exhausting. The Hollywood Reporter commented on its “meticulous detail and sobriety."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh considered "Che" a labor of love, highlighting the complexities of a historical figure often simplified in popular culture.

23. The Informant! (2009)

• Plot Summary: A dark comedy based on true events, following the story of a corporate whistleblower involved in the lysine price-fixing conspiracy of the 1990s.
• Box Office: The film earned approximately $41.8 million worldwide.
• Audience Reaction: While it wasn't a major box office hit, its offbeat humor and Matt Damon's performance garnered appreciation.
• Main Actors: Matt Damon, Scott Bakula, and Joel McHale.
• Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures.
• Production Cost: Estimated at $22 million.
• Critic Reviews: Critics found its blend of humor and real-life corporate malfeasance intriguing. The Guardian appreciated Damon's portrayal, calling it “wonderfully funny and subtly anguished.”
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh enjoyed experimenting with the tone of a corporate crime story, opting for humor over drama to highlight the absurdities of the situation.

24. Contagion (2011)

• Plot Summary: An action-thriller that portrays the rapid spread of a deadly virus and the attempts of healthcare professionals to manage the outbreak.
• Box Office: The film was a global success, grossing around $136.5 million.
• Audience Reaction: The gripping, realistic portrayal of a pandemic scenario was lauded, and the film gained renewed interest during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Main Actors: Matt Damon, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, and Gwyneth Paltrow.
• Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures.
• Production Cost: About $60 million.
• Critic Reviews: The film was appreciated for its scientific accuracy and intense narrative. Rolling Stone commented on its “razor-sharp specifics and chilling details.”
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh emphasized the importance of grounding the film in reality, consulting with epidemiologists to ensure accuracy.

Soderbergh's body of work, encompassing both indie films and blockbuster hits, is a testament to his range and versatility. He manages to bring forth unique perspectives, regardless of the scale or genre of the project, positioning him as one of the most influential directors of his generation. As Soderbergh's career progresses, his legacy continues to solidify, emphasizing his ability to not only adapt to but also shape the ever-changing cinematic landscape.

 

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25. Magic Mike (2012)

• Plot Summary: This dramedy follows the life of a male stripper, Mike, and his journey in the adult entertainment world while mentoring a younger performer.
• Box Office: The film was a massive hit, grossing over $167 million worldwide.
• Audience Reaction: Beyond its dazzling dance numbers, audiences appreciated its deeper dive into the struggles and aspirations of its characters.
• Main Actors: Channing Tatum, Alex Pettyfer, and Matthew McConaughey.
• Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures.
• Production Cost: Approximately $7 million.
• Critic Reviews: Critics praised its balance between entertainment and meaningful storytelling. The New York Times wrote, "It is also a stealthily well-made, serious-minded study of friendship, aspiration, and work."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh was inspired by Tatum's real-life experiences as a stripper. He sought to make a film that was both entertaining and thoughtful, highlighting the duality of the profession.

26. Side Effects (2013)

• Plot Summary: This psychological thriller revolves around a woman's life spiraling out of control due to the side effects of a prescription drug prescribed by her psychiatrist.
• Box Office: It grossed around $63.4 million globally.
• Audience Reaction: The film's twists and turns, combined with its critique of the pharmaceutical industry, garnered positive reactions.
• Main Actors: Rooney Mara, Jude Law, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Channing Tatum.
• Studio: Open Road Films.
• Production Cost: Estimated $30 million.
• Critic Reviews: The film was lauded for its engaging plot and strong performances. Variety noted, "An effective, twist-laden psychological thriller."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh mentioned that he was drawn to the screenplay's exploration of how external factors, like medication, can influence personal choices and perceptions of reality.

27. Logan Lucky (2017)

• Plot Summary: A heist comedy that follows the Logan siblings as they plan a robbery during the Coca-Cola 600 race in North Carolina.
• Box Office: The film earned over $48 million worldwide.
• Audience Reaction: Its quirky characters and inventive heist plot made it a crowd-pleaser.
• Main Actors: Channing Tatum, Adam Driver, Riley Keough, and Daniel Craig.
• Studio: Bleecker Street and Fingerprint Releasing.
• Production Cost: Around $29 million.
• Critic Reviews: Critics appreciated the film's humor and charm. Entertainment Weekly stated, "Soderbergh's return to the big screen is a whole lot of fun."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh described it as an "anti-glam version of an Ocean's movie", aiming to bring the heist genre down to its roots with a blue-collar touch.

28. High Flying Bird (2019)

• Plot Summary: This sports drama, shot entirely on an iPhone, revolves around an NBA lockout and a sports agent's attempt to upend the system.
• Audience Reaction: Its unique shooting style and deep dive into the politics of sports were well-received.
• Main Actors: André Holland, Zazie Beetz, and Melvin Gregg.
• Studio: Netflix.
• Critic Reviews: The film's sharp critique of the sports industry's power dynamics garnered praise. The Guardian observed, "A slick, sharp, properly smart piece of work."
• Director's Comments: Soderbergh was fascinated with the intersection of sports, business, and race. He saw the iPhone as a means to tell the story in a more immediate, intimate way.

Soderbergh's filmography from the 2010s demonstrates his continued dedication to innovation, both in terms of narrative themes and technical methods. By constantly experimenting with new storytelling techniques and tapping into contemporary societal issues, he remains a relevant and thought-provoking figure in the world of cinema. His ability to blend entertainment with deeper societal commentary underscores his mastery over the medium.