Steven Soderbergh has spent more than two decades making all kinds of films, and yet he continues to surprise us with something new that changes the norms. His latest film, “Black Bag,” released in March 2025, is a prime example. This sleek and stylish spy thriller, written by David Koepp, has garnered widespread acclaim from critics. It follows a British intelligence officer who must investigate a list of possible traitors, one of whom could be his wife. The film’s unique premise and Soderbergh’s masterful direction showcase his ability to blend complex themes with engaging storytelling. Throughout his career, Soderbergh has always strived to tell stories that are simple in themselves but cater to a collective vision he has about cinema. His specificity stems from his belief that it is the job of a director to carve the path forward for a story wholeheartedly.

A lot of his features are...