Monday, April 2, 2018

Movie review: American Made

 
 Facing jail time for smuggling drugs into the U.S., pilot Barry Seal instead turns informant for the DEA. First running drugs, then later guns, Barry ends up smack in the middle of what would become the Iran-Contra Affair.

Tom Cruise (Barry), Domhnall Gleeson (Schafer), Sarah Wright (Lucy), Jesse Plemons (Sheriff Downing), Caled Jones (JB), Jayma Mays (Dana), Alejandro Edda (Ocooa), Mauricio Mejia (Escobar), Jed Rees (Finkle).

American Made launches straight into the story with some time shifting of scenes which quickly bring us up to speed. Though there is some question of accuracy, the story moves along at a nice pace. The difficult part is believing Barry stumbled into covert CIA work and that once involved he apparently wasn't bright enough to say no. While Cruise may make him a likeable guy in the film, one has to wonder about his intelligence. Surprisingly, the story translates well to the big screen and the film is enjoyable.

Acting was decent with Cruise delivering a solid performance for once based more on emotion than action. Gleeson also delivered nicely and fit his role well. Wright was interesting, if a bit over the top at times. Plemons and the remainder of the supporting cast were good.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds are enjoyable with good use of backgrounds. Action scenes were well done without taking over the film, and blended nicely with CGI. Dialogue was okay but could have used a bit more depth, and a reality check or two. Sound and soundtrack are enjoyable.

In the end, American Made is an enjoyable Crime Action flick despite some potential historical potholes. Those who enjoy a solid Crime Action & Adventure flick or have interest in the Iran-Contra affair should enjoy this one.

With some mild sexuality, mild nudity, implied violence, and foul language, save this for older teens and above.

Released: 2017
Reviewed: 3.13.18
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Crime Action, Action & Adventure, Drama based on real life, Crime Drama, Dark Humor

copyright ©2018 Dave Riedel

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