Bandits (Bandidas)

Sometimes you stumble across a musical with a wild premise, and “Bandits” (aka “Bandidas”), a French-German production directed by Christian Duguay, is exactly that kind of surprise. Set in 1990s Germany, it's a blend of crime caper and girl-band fantasy, following four women who escape prison and form a rock band while on the run. The plot sounds completely outlandish, but it leans into its own style with cheeky gusto, and that’s part of the fun.

The biggest standouts here are the cast—especially Katja Riemann and Jasmin Tabatabai—who bring both grit and vulnerability to their outlaw characters. The chemistry among the ensemble works in its favor, giving each character a distinct arc, while the songs (performed by the actresses themselves) are genuinely catchy and layer in real emotion. The musical performances have an edgy, garage-band authenticity that fits the narrative’s sense of rebellion and camaraderie.

Visually, you can tell it was shot on a tight budget, but the cinematography makes creative use of gritty, urban spaces as the backdrops for the band’s performances and run-from-the-law antics. There's nothing fancy in terms of flashy camera moves, but the energy is undeniable and the pacing keeps things moving briskly. It has that '90s European indie vibe that’s a little rough around the edges, and that ends up feeling charming rather than off-putting.

If there’s a weak point, it’s that the story sometimes trades plausibility for style—the leaps of logic you’re expected to make can stretch a little thin. Not all the drama lands, and the tonal jumps from wacky chase scenes to emotional band moments don’t always blend seamlessly. But if you go in knowing you’re watching an off-kilter, part-musical, part-heist story, it’s weirdly easy to forgive.

You would enjoy this if you like offbeat, girl-powered crime comedies with earnest musical interludes and don’t mind a mix of gritty realism and improbable escapes. Especially recommended if you’re into ‘90s European cinema or movies like “The Commitments,” but want something with a literal criminal twist.