After the Sunset (2004)

*** ### After the Sunset (2004) After a lifetime of pulling off high-stakes heists, master thieves Max Burdett (Pierce Brosnan) and Lola Cirillo (Salma Hayek) believe they've finally called it quits. They've retreated to the sun-drenched paradise of the Bahamas, enjoying the spoils of their last successful score and the tranquility of retirement. However, their idyllic new life is swiftly interrupted by the arrival of their longtime adversary, FBI Agent Stan P. Lloyd (Woody Harrelson), who believes their retirement is nothing more than an elaborate ruse. Convinced that their retirement is a facade, Agent Lloyd sets up shop nearby, meticulously observing their every move. His suspicions are particularly piqued by the sudden presence of a luxurious ocean liner, the "Diamond Cruise," docked in the local port, which he believes is the stage for their next audacious scheme. This sets up a sophisticated, sun-soaked game of cat and mouse where the line between genuine retirement and a cunning new setup remains tantalizingly blurred, as Max and Lola navigate their past, present, and the irresistible lure of one last score. ### Why it Belongs on "Best Brett Ratner Movies" *After the Sunset* (2004) earns its place on a "Best Brett Ratner Movies" list as a quintessential example of his directorial strengths: delivering slick, star-driven, and highly entertaining commercial cinema. Ratner excels at crafting films that are fun, fast-paced, and lean into the charisma of their leading actors. Here, he masterfully utilizes Pierce Brosnan's post-Bond sophistication, Salma Hayek's alluring charm, and Woody Harrelson's quirky, determined persona to create a vibrant cat-and-mouse caper. The film perfectly blends elements of a sophisticated heist thriller with romantic comedy and a sun-soaked, escapist setting—all hallmarks of Ratner's accessible style. While perhaps not his most critically lauded, *After the Sunset* is a prime representation of what Ratner does best: a polished, engaging, and genuinely enjoyable popcorn movie that leverages a clever premise and strong performances to deliver solid entertainment. It showcases his ability to create a visually appealing, character-driven action-comedy that is effortlessly watchable and distinctly "Ratner."