[Because of] lapses in story logic and character development, “The Last Castle” falls short of the film it could have been. It relies too much on a conflict between colorful characters, and a thrilling finish. On those levels it works–I enjoyed watching this movie. It could have been more, could have been a triumph and a classic, instead of simply an effective entertainment. The performances by Redford and Gandolfini are there ready to be used in the service of something better. — Roger Ebert