Paint It Red

Paint It Red is a 2009 American thriller film directed by Victor Salva and written by Jason Mitoff. The story revolves around Victor (played by David Arquette), a charismatic and cunning bank robber with a passion for the art world, and his partner, Rob (played by Marc Blucas), a quiet and more subdued accomplice. They are tasked with a unique job: to retrieve stolen artwork and cash from a group of free-spirited artists living in a rundown Bohemian commune-style apartment complex. Their target is a group of artists known for their eccentric lifestyle and love of art. The complex is run by the enigmatic and charismatic Maude (played by Jaime King), who lives with her partner, a quiet, introspective woman named Eve (played by Bijou Phillips). The artists are a motley crew of creatives, each with their own unique style and talents. As Victor and Rob navigate the artists' complex, they discover that their stolen loot has been hidden among the group's extensive art collection. Victor becomes increasingly obsessed with uncovering the location of the stolen goods, often butting heads with the artists, who are initially wary of his intentions. As the tension between Victor and the artists builds, he begins to reveal his true purpose: not only to retrieve the stolen goods but to also claim the art itself for his own gallery. The film takes a darker turn as it explores the relationships between Victor, Rob, and the artists. Victor's charisma hides a dark underbelly, and his obsession with the art collection becomes all-consuming. Meanwhile, Rob begins to question Victor's motives, sensing that something is not quite right. As the complex's residents start to suspect that the duo is after more than just the stolen loot, the stage is set for a tense confrontation. Throughout the film, the lines between art and reality blur, highlighting the themes of ownership, possession, and the value placed on creative expression. The film's title, Paint It Red, refers to the artists' penchant for color and vibrancy, but also serves as a metaphor for the destructive power of obsession. As Victor's fixation on the art collection grows, the atmosphere in the complex becomes increasingly charged. The artists, feeling threatened by Victor's intentions, begin to band together, forming a sense of solidarity and resistance against the duo. Eve, in particular, becomes a focal point of tension, as her quiet strength and artistic vision serve as a counterpoint to Victor's more aggressive and commercial approach. As the story builds towards its climax, the relationships between Victor, Rob, and the artists reach a boiling point. The film's final act is a tense and suspenseful exploration of the consequences of obsession, as Victor's world begins to unravel and the artists fight to protect their art, their home, and their way of life. Ultimately, Paint It Red is a thought-provoking thriller that explores the complexities of human relationships and the value we place on creative expression. With its unique setting, complex characters, and exploration of themes, the film offers a fresh take on the traditional "heist" genre.