**The Infiltrator: This Overlooked 2016 Crime Thriller is Taking Over Netflix**
In the constantly changing landscape of streaming, it’s common for older, underrated films to receive a resurgence on services like Netflix. A prime example of this is *The Infiltrator*, a 2016 crime flick that has recently gained traction, ascending the Netflix Top 10 charts. Despite its original underwhelming performance at the box office, the film is now appealing to a wider audience, thanks to its captivating storyline and impressive cast.
### An Overlooked Treasure
*The Infiltrator* is inspired by the real-life events of U.S. Customs special agent Robert “Bob” Mazur, who played an essential role in taking down Pablo Escobar’s money-laundering schemes during the 1980s. Directed by Brad Furman, the film features Bryan Cranston as Mazur, with a strong supporting ensemble that includes Diane Kruger, Benjamin Bratt, John Leguizamo, and Amy Ryan.
The narrative revolves around Mazur’s covert operation to penetrate Escobar’s drug cartel by masquerading as a corrupt businessman ready to launder money for them. This operation, among the most daring stings ever, revealed the complex financial systems backing the drug industry and resulted in the apprehension of significant cartel figures and their financial associates.
### Bryan Cranston’s Stunning Performance
Bryan Cranston, famed for his portrayal of Walter White in *Breaking Bad*, offers a mesmerizing performance as Mazur. His depiction of the undercover operative navigating the moral ambiguities of his role enriches the film, elevating it beyond a standard crime thriller. Cranston’s skill in portraying the emotional burden of leading a double life stands out as one of the film’s finest aspects.
Interestingly, the actual Bob Mazur initially had doubts about Cranston taking on his role due to the actor’s age when filming commenced. However, Mazur later complimented Cranston’s portrayal, remarking, “His talent is so huge, that age became a complete non-issue.”
### A Box Office Flop Transformed into Streaming Hit
Although it earned largely favorable reviews from critics, achieving a 72% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, *The Infiltrator* performed poorly at the box office. It generated just $22 million against a production budget estimated between $28 and $47 million. For reasons that remain perplexing, the film attracted minimal theatrical audiences.
Nonetheless, similar to many films that didn’t excel in cinemas, *The Infiltrator* has found new life on Netflix. The platform’s extensive user base and algorithm recommendations have allowed the film to reach audiences who may have overlooked it initially. As of November 2024, *The Infiltrator* holds the #6 spot on Netflix’s Top 10 Movies in the U.S. chart, demonstrating that quality content can ultimately connect with viewers.
### Critical Recognition
While *The Infiltrator* may not have dominated box office sales, it garnered acclaim from critics for its artistry and performances. Time magazine described it as “a summer movie for grownups, the kind that reminds you how gratifying it can be to sit down uninterrupted and watch actors work on the big screen.” NPR shared similar appreciation, remarking that the film is “distinguished by its craft and verve.”
### Reasons to Watch It
If you enjoy crime dramas, particularly those grounded in true stories, *The Infiltrator* is essential viewing. The film provides an exhilarating glimpse into the perilous realm of undercover missions, with a unique emphasis on the financial elements of the drug trade—a viewpoint seldom explored in mainstream crime cinema. Bryan Cranston’s performance alone warrants the watch, but the film’s intense, high-stakes storyline will captivate you from beginning to end.
As *The Infiltrator* continues its rise on Netflix, it’s apparent that this overlooked treasure is finally receiving the acknowledgment it merits. Whether you bypassed it in theaters or are encountering it for the first time, now is the ideal moment to immerse yourself in this thrilling crime drama.
*The Infiltrator* is currently available for streaming on Netflix.
