Jeff's Reviews

Thoughts on every movie I've ever seen.

American Hustle (2013)

Directed by David O. Russell

Starring Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence

Author

At the start, I wasn’t sure if I was going to be having a Martin Scorsese or Wes Anderson or Coen brothers experience. Ended up being a combination of the three. And it might be the most authentic recreation of the 70’s ever put on film. Actually felt like I was there. Kudos to costume, make-up, set designers, and prop people.

Wonderful cast. The stars are uninhibitedly and completely absorbed by their roles, and the result is authentic, period-perfect performances. Bale was exceptional as a Jersey Jew. Wow, that wasn’t a fat suit? Adams’ most genuine and courageous performance yet. She was made for the 70’s. De Niro was the cherry on top.

During production, Russell reportedly said, “I hate plots. I am all about characters, that’s it.” Unfortunately, it shows. His characters are deep and real and the relationships between them are interesting, but the story runs a little long and feels a bit convoluted. A few small laughs keep things from getting too heavy.

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