Tower Heist Movie (2011): Cast, Plot, & Is It Worth Watching?

Q: What is the Tower Heist Movie All About?

The 2011 film, Tower Heist, is a high-stakes, comedic caper centered on Josh Kovacs (Ben Stiller), the manager of a luxurious New York City apartment building. When the building's wealthiest tenant, Arthur Shaw (Alan Alda), is arrested for a massive Ponzi scheme, Josh and the entire staff lose their pensions. Feeling betrayed and realizing the legal system may not deliver justice, Josh hatches a plan to steal back their money, which he believes Shaw has hidden in his penthouse. He recruits a team of disgruntled employees and enlists the help of a streetwise criminal named Slide (Eddie Murphy) to pull off the ambitious heist. The film explores themes of revenge, justice, class struggle, and teamwork, blending the suspense of a classic heist film with sharp comedic timing.

Q: Is Tower Heist a good movie?

Tower Heist received mixed reviews. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 67% score from critics, who praised the cast but found the plot predictable. Metacritic gave it a score of 56 out of 100, indicating "mixed or average reviews." However, audiences rated the film more favorably, with a 69% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes and a 6.2 out of 10 on IMDb. This suggests that while critics had reservations, general moviegoers found it to be a fun, star-studded, and entertaining action-comedy.

Tower Heist is a 2011 American heist comedy film directed by Brett Ratner. The movie stars Ben Stiller and Eddie Murphy, who lead a cast of disgruntled employees in a plan to rob the penthouse of a Wall Street billionaire that defrauded them of their pensions.

Have you ever been captivated by a master plan unfolding on screen—the thrill of a high-stakes robbery, a meticulous crew, and an impossible target? While many heist films lean into gritty realism, some of the most memorable add a healthy dose of humor and a star-studded ensemble. A perfect example is the 2011 gem Tower Heist, which brings together an unlikely team for a thrilling caper.

This isn’t your typical grab-the-cash movie. Tower Heist offers a unique spin, blending comedy with genuine suspense. The plot follows a group of wronged luxury apartment workers who team up to reclaim their stolen pensions from a Wall Street con artist. Driven by the brilliant comedic timing of its leads and the ingenious (and often chaotic) execution of their plan, the film delivers a truly entertaining ride. But does it live up to the hype? We’re here to find out.

In this guide, we will break down the complete plot summary and introduce the talented cast. We’ll also explore the film’s real-world filming locations and give our honest verdict on whether this action-comedy is worth watching. So, grab your popcorn and let’s get into what the Tower Heist movie is all about.

What is the Tower Heist Movie All About?

A diverse team of five professionals in a modern office, gathered around a holographic blueprint of a skyscraper, planning intently. — Professional photography, photorealistic, high-quality stock photo style. A diverse team of five individuals (men and women, various ethnicities, aged 30-50) in sharp business casual attire, intensely focused around a large, illuminated holographic projection of a detailed skyscraper blueprint. They are in a sleek, modern control room or planning office with subtle, futuristic elements. One person points at a specific section of the blueprint, while others lean in with serious, determined expressions. The lighting is dramatic and strategic, highlighting their faces and the blueprint. Corporate photography, business environment.

Plot Summary

The 2011 film, Tower Heist, plunges viewers into a high-stakes, comedic caper led by protagonist Josh Kovacs (Ben Stiller). As the dedicated manager of The Tower, a luxurious New York City apartment building, Josh prides himself on loyalty and efficiency, ensuring the wealthy residents live lavishly.

However, chaos erupts when the building’s wealthiest tenant, Wall Street magnate Arthur Shaw (Alan Alda), is arrested for a massive Ponzi scheme. Since Shaw had been managing their retirement funds, Josh and the entire building staff lose their pensions. With their life savings vanished overnight, this betrayal fuels a fierce desire for justice.

Realizing the legal system may not help them, Josh hatches an audacious plan. He believes Shaw has hidden a secret stash of money within his penthouse apartment and recruits a ragtag team of disgruntled employees to get it back. This crew includes the concierge, the elevator operator, and a former tenant facing foreclosure.

To pull off this ambitious heist, the team needs an expert, leading them to enlist a notorious criminal named Slide (Eddie Murphy). A streetwise, fast-talking ex-con, Slide becomes their unlikely mentor. Together, this diverse group plans to break into Shaw’s heavily guarded penthouse and reclaim what is rightfully theirs. With the stakes incredibly high, they must outsmart the FBI, Shaw himself, and complex security measures to recover their stolen future.

Key Themes and Genre

Tower Heist firmly plants itself within the popular heist comedy genre, brilliantly blending the suspense and intricate planning of a classic heist film with sharp wit and comedic timing. While the movie offers plenty of laughs, it also delivers genuine tension that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

At its core, the film explores several compelling themes, most notably revenge and justice. The staff’s mission is not just about money; it is a fight against corporate greed and a quest for retribution after a devastating betrayal.

Furthermore, the movie delves into class struggle and economic inequality, pitting the wealthy elite against the working class. It highlights the disparity in power that leaves ordinary people vulnerable to financial criminals, a theme that resonates with real-world frustrations ^[1].

Teamwork and loyalty are also central. Despite their differences, the crew members must trust each other and work together toward a common goal, highlighting the strength found in solidarity. Each member brings unique skills to the operation, making their collective effort crucial for success.

Ultimately, Tower Heist offers more than just entertainment; it’s a commentary on morality and what happens when the system fails. The film questions where true justice lies and whether it can always be found within legal boundaries.

Similar Heist Comedies to Enjoy

If you loved the blend of laughs and thrills in Tower Heist, consider these other fantastic films:

Movie Title	Year	Key Actors	Brief Description
Ocean’s Eleven	2001	George Clooney, Brad Pitt	A star-studded team plans to rob three Las Vegas casinos simultaneously.
Logan Lucky	2017	Channing Tatum, Adam Driver	Two brothers plan an elaborate heist during a NASCAR race.
A Fish Called Wanda	1988	John Cleese, Jamie Lee Curtis	A diamond heist goes wrong, leading to hilarious betrayals and complications.
Now You See Me	2013	Jesse Eisenberg, Mark Ruffalo	Magicians perform heists during their shows, giving money to their audiences.

Is Tower Heist a good movie?

Critical Reception vs. Audience Score

The critical and audience reception for Tower Heist was notably mixed, presenting a divided view of the film’s success.

On the critical front, opinions were divided. Rotten Tomatoes assigned the film a “Rotten” score of 67% from 196 reviews ^[2]. While the site’s consensus praised the ensemble cast and entertaining premise, many film critics found the plot predictable. Similarly, Metacritic’s weighted average score was 59 out of 100, also signifying “mixed or average reviews” ^[3].

Audience sentiment, however, was generally more positive. The Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score, for instance, is 69%, suggesting that general moviegoers found plenty to enjoy despite critical reservations ^[2]. On IMDb, users gave it a solid 6.2 out of 10 ^[4]. This common divergence between critical and audience scores for action-comedies often highlights that many viewers prioritize entertainment value and star power above all else.

Our Verdict: A Fun, Star-Studded Caper

So, is Tower Heist worth watching? Our verdict is a resounding yes. If you enjoy a good old-fashioned heist film with a comedic twist, this movie delivers an entertaining, star-studded caper that hits all the right notes.

The film’s greatest strength is its incredible ensemble cast. Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy, Casey Affleck, Alan Alda, Matthew Broderick, Téa Leoni, and Michael Peña all shine, and their chemistry is undeniable. Additionally, the plot moves at a brisk pace that keeps you engaged from start to finish. The blend of humor and suspense works exceptionally well, making it easy to root for these unlikely heroes.

If you’re looking for a lighthearted and fun movie night, Tower Heist is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for fans of crime comedies and ensemble pieces, offering plenty of laughs, clever schemes, and a satisfying conclusion. Ultimately, the film is a great reminder that a fun experience can often trump critical nitpicking, making it a definite watch for anyone seeking pure entertainment.

Who is in the Tower Heist Cast?

A diverse and confident group of seven professionals in stylish attire, standing shoulder-to-shoulder against a blurred city backdrop. — Photorealistic, professional photography, high-quality stock photo style. A dynamic, waist-up group shot of seven diverse individuals (men and women of various ages and ethnicities) exuding confidence and camaraderie. They are dressed in stylish, tailored modern business attire. They stand shoulder-to-shoulder, some with subtle smiles, others with determined expressions, looking directly at the camera. The background is a slightly blurred, sophisticated urban cityscape at dusk, conveying a sense of teamwork and professionalism ready for action. Corporate photography, professional headshot style for an ensemble.

The A-List Leads: Ben Stiller & Eddie Murphy

The success of any great heist film rests on its leads, and Tower Heist delivers with two titans of comedy and cinema: Ben Stiller and Eddie Murphy. Their combined star power is a major draw.

Ben Stiller stars as Josh Kovacs, the diligent manager of The Tower’s luxury condominium. Though he typically runs a tight ship, Josh becomes the mastermind of the heist to seek revenge and justice for his wronged staff. Stiller brings a unique blend of his signature neurotic humor and unexpected dramatic gravitas to the character, grounding the film’s wild premise.

Joining the crew is Eddie Murphy as Slide, a street-smart petty criminal brought in to assist with the elaborate plan. Murphy delivers a performance reminiscent of his classic, quick-witted roles, injecting significant energy into the narrative with his comedic timing and undeniable charisma. A key highlight for many viewers ^[5], his character provides a perfect counterpoint to Stiller’s more buttoned-up protagonist.

The Supporting Ensemble

Beyond its stellar leads, Tower Heist boasts an impressive supporting cast. These actors round out the diverse group of individuals involved in the audacious robbery, with each character playing a crucial part in the film’s humor and suspense.

Here is a look at some of the key players:

Actor	Role	Character Description
Casey Affleck	Charlie Gibbs	Josh’s brother-in-law and the Tower’s concierge. He is initially hesitant but committed.
Alan Alda	Arthur Shaw	The arrogant and deceptive billionaire. He is the target of the heist.
Matthew Broderick	Mr. Fitzhugh	A disgraced former Wall Street investor and Tower resident. He joins the crew out of desperation.
Téa Leoni	Special Agent Claire Denham	A diligent FBI agent investigating Shaw. She develops a complicated dynamic with Josh.
Michael Peña	Enrique Dev’Reaux	A new, well-meaning bellhop. He is recruited for his unassuming nature.
Gabourey Sidibe	Odessa Montero	A sassy and resourceful maid. Her knowledge of the Tower’s inner workings is invaluable.
Stephen McKinley Henderson	Lester	The wise and loyal doorman. He suffers a stroke due to Shaw’s actions.

The ensemble cast delivers excellent performances, bringing depth and personality to their roles. From the comedic relief of Peña’s Enrique to the moral compass of Sidibe’s Odessa, every actor contributes to the film’s engaging dynamic. The crew’s varied skill sets are essential for executing the seemingly impossible tower heist movie plan, and these supporting roles truly elevate the film’s quality.

Was Tower Heist filmed in Trump Tower?

The Real-Life New York Filming Locations

Many fans of the Tower Heist movie wonder if its impressive skyscraper was the real Trump Tower. While the film’s fictional building, “The Tower,” certainly evokes a sense of grandeur, it was not actually filmed at the iconic Fifth Avenue location.

However, the real location does have a strong connection to the Trump brand. For the villain’s luxurious penthouse, filmmakers used the magnificent Trump International Hotel and Tower at One Central Park West. Overlooking Columbus Circle and Central Park, this stunning building provided the perfect backdrop for a high-stakes robbery [source: https://www.atlasofwonders.com/2012/03/tower-heist-filming-locations.html].

To capture the essence of New York City, director Brett Ratner and his team brilliantly blended practical locations with meticulously designed sets. This combination allowed them to create both the lavish interiors and the daring exterior stunts the film required.

Beyond the central “Tower,” the Tower Heist movie showcases several other famous New York City spots. These locations immerse viewers in the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple, making the city itself another character in the story.

Columbus Circle: As the area surrounding the Trump International Hotel and Tower, it set the stage for many of the film’s key outdoor scenes.
Central Park: The beloved urban oasis appears in crucial moments, providing a stark contrast to the concrete jungle.
Macy’s Herald Square: The iconic department store is featured, enhancing the film’s authentic NYC feel [source: https://www.onthesetofnewyork.com/towerheist.html].
The Russian Tea Room: This historic and opulent restaurant provided another distinctive backdrop, adding a touch of classic New York charm.

Ultimately, the movie offers a fantastic visual tour of Manhattan. The use of genuine New York City locations lends an undeniable authenticity to the caper, helping to make the elaborate heist feel even more real and thrilling.

Where Can You Watch the Tower Heist Movie Online?

Is Tower Heist on Netflix?

Many viewers start their movie search on Netflix, but finding the Tower Heist movie there can be inconsistent. The film is not a permanent part of the Netflix library because streaming rights often change. This means its availability can vary over time. While older movies like this sometimes appear for a limited run, we recommend checking the Netflix app or website directly for the most current information.

Streaming, Rental, and Purchase Options

Even if Netflix isn’t an option, there are plenty of other ways to watch the Tower Heist movie online. The popular crime comedy is widely available to rent or purchase from major video-on-demand (VOD) platforms, giving you the flexibility to watch it on your own schedule.

Here’s a breakdown of where you can typically find Tower Heist for rent or purchase:

Amazon Prime Video: A popular choice for both renting and buying digital movies.
Apple TV (iTunes): Offers a vast library for digital rentals and purchases.
Google Play Movies & TV: Conveniently available for transactions on Android and web.
Vudu: Known for its extensive catalog of movies to rent or own.
YouTube Movies: Provides an easy way to rent or purchase films directly via YouTube.

Beyond renting or buying, Tower Heist sometimes appears on other subscription streaming services like Peacock or Starz as part of their rotating movie libraries. Because these licensing agreements can change without notice, it’s always best to check the platform directly to see if the film is currently available ^[6].

Rental prices typically start at a few dollars, while purchasing the movie costs more. Prices vary by platform and are often affected by promotions, so comparing services is the best way to find a good deal. Get ready to watch Ben Stiller and Eddie Murphy pull off their ambitious plan!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Tower Heist Movie

Is there a Tower Heist 2?

Unfortunately, no. A direct sequel titled Tower Heist 2 has never been released. Although there were initial plans for a follow-up to the 2011 film, the project never materialized. Fans have long hoped for another heist, but the original movie currently stands alone.

What happened to Tower Heist 2?

After the first film’s release, there was significant interest in making Tower Heist 2. Director Brett Ratner and star Eddie Murphy expressed enthusiasm for a sequel, with early ideas suggesting a new heist set in Europe. ^[7]

However, the project eventually stalled. Sequels often face development hurdles, and this film was no exception. Common reasons a follow-up might not get made include:

Script Development Issues: Crafting a compelling and fresh story that builds effectively on the original can be a significant challenge.
Actor Availability: Coordinating the schedules of a star-studded cast, like the one featured in the original Tower Heist movie, is a logistical puzzle.
Studio Priorities: Film studios frequently shift their focus to other projects, especially if the first film’s box office performance didn’t quite hit blockbuster levels to guarantee a sequel greenlight.

Ultimately, due to one or more of these challenges, a second Tower Heist adventure was never produced, leaving fans to enjoy the original New York caper.

Where can I watch the bank heist with Kevin and Taraji?

You might be thinking of a different movie! The 2011 film Tower Heist features a cast that includes Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy, and Casey Affleck, but not Kevin Hart or Taraji P. Henson.

If you’re looking for an action-thriller with Taraji P. Henson, you may be thinking of the 2018 movie Proud Mary. In this film, Henson plays a hitwoman whose life is upended after she meets a young boy. While it’s not a bank heist film, it contains similar action and crime elements. Kevin Hart is not in this movie, either. ^[8]

To watch Proud Mary, you can typically find it on several digital platforms:

Streaming Services: Check major subscription platforms such as Hulu, Peacock, or Tubi, as availability can vary over time.
Digital Rental: It’s widely available for rent on services like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, YouTube, and Apple TV.
Digital Purchase: You also have the option to buy a digital copy from these same providers to own permanently.

Remember, while both films are action-packed, Proud Mary and the comedy-caper Tower Heist are two separate movies, each offering a unique kind of thrill.