Netflix fans are rediscovering the sequel to one of the best heist movies ever made, as Inside Man: Most Wanted climbs the streaming charts. Recently added to the platform, the film has quickly captured the attention of viewers, currently sitting in second place among the top 10 films for UK subscribers. As of May 6, 2025, it ranks just behind the German thriller Exterritorial and ahead of Tom Hardy's action drama Havoc, which now occupies third place.
Originally released in 2019, Inside Man: Most Wanted serves as a follow-up to the acclaimed 2006 film Inside Man, which starred Clive Owen, Jodie Foster, and Denzel Washington, with Spike Lee directing. The original film is often hailed as one of the best heist movies ever made, with fans expressing their admiration online. One viewer remarked, "One of the best heist movies ever made in cinema history - story is superb and the ending is unpredictable," underscoring its lasting impact.
Despite the original film's success, plans for a sequel featuring the original cast were shelved by 2011. Screenwriter Russell Gewirtz and director Spike Lee were initially set to return, with Washington, Owen, Foster, and Chiwetel Ejiofor poised to reprise their roles. However, these plans were ultimately canceled, leaving fans disappointed.
Fast forward eight years, and audiences were introduced to Inside Man: Most Wanted, a direct-to-video project that operates within the same universe as its predecessor. While the sequel does not feature any of the original cast or crew, it does include a nod to Washington's character from the original film, visible in the trailer.
Set five years after the events of the first film, Inside Man: Most Wanted follows Ariella Barash and her group of robbers as they execute a meticulously planned bank heist, taking tourists hostage in the process. This crisis prompts a collaboration between the NYPD and FBI, who must race against time to rescue innocent lives caught in the crossfire.
Unfortunately, Inside Man: Most Wanted has not received the same level of acclaim as its predecessor. While Inside Man boasts an impressive 86% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, its sequel has garnered a 69% popcornmeter score based on fan-submitted reviews. Despite this, some viewers have praised the film for its engaging plot and characters. One fan shared, "This film is one of a kind where you want to just sit down and think and get hooked to what will happen next. Absolutely fantastic!"
Another viewer noted, "Fun movie, intense at times, lots of twists, enjoyable characters, thoroughly enjoyed it. It's underrated." However, not all feedback has been positive. One critic lamented, "The original Inside Man was incredibly well written, acted, and directed and a heist movie masterpiece. This was just pure blasphemy and totally unnecessary. If you haven't seen the original, watch that instead. If you have seen the original, don't taint your memory of a great movie."
For those interested in exploring the original film that sparked such admiration, it is currently available on Netflix and streaming for free on Tubi. Both Inside Man and Inside Man: Most Wanted can also be accessed through Starz via Apple TV Channels, ensuring that fans can enjoy the complete experience of this heist saga.
As streaming services continue to dominate the entertainment landscape, the rediscovery of films like Inside Man: Most Wanted highlights the enduring appeal of heist thrillers and the nostalgia associated with beloved franchises. With its recent surge in popularity, the sequel may yet find its place alongside its predecessor, as audiences embrace the tension and excitement of a well-executed heist.
As viewers tune in to see how the story unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Inside Man: Most Wanted will solidify its status as a worthy successor to the original film or remain a footnote in the annals of cinematic history. Regardless, the film's current success on Netflix demonstrates that even lesser-known sequels can capture the imagination of audiences, reminding us of the power of storytelling in all its forms.
