With "American Hustle", David O. Russell is emerging as the best American film maker of the 21st century. "I Heart Huckabees" in 2004, "The Fighter" in 2008, and "Silver Linings Playbook" last year are all very divergent films. Russell can tackle a sports bio-pic one time, and the next time, as with "Silver Linings Playbook", shift gears and make a rom/com/drama. All the while piling up critical acclaim and awards for his casts.
"American Hustle" is no exception and may win the Oscar for best film. I fully expect it to be nominated for Best Film, Screenplay, Actor, Actress, Supporting Actor, and Supporting Actress. "American Hustle" has already been honored by the New York Film Critics Circle for best film of the year, best screenplay, and best supporting actress (Jennifer Lawrence). In case you might have been wondering, Jennifer Lawrence is the real deal. I think there is a distinct possibility she could be nominated for two roles this year. Best Actress for "Hunger Games: Catching Fire" and Supporting Actress for "American Hustle". Her acting from film to film displays a range and maturity that is far beyond her years. All the major players ply their craft with elegance and charm. Let's now delve into the plot.
"American Hustle" is loosely based on the FBI "Abscam" sting operation of the late seventies and early eighties. This was the first video taped sting operation. It ended up catching, a US Senator, six US congressmen, and various other politicians taking bribes. At first blush, "American Hustle" is a crime drama but it is also a con game movie, a love story, and a true character study! "American Hustle" has characters who are fascinating to watch and whose quirks are quite humorous. I am telling ya, ya just can't take your eyes off of them. Bradley Cooper plays Richie DiMaso, an FBI agent who dreams of becoming a major player in the Bureau. When he comes into contact with the brilliant con artist, Irving Rosenfeld (Christian Bale), and his partner, Sydney Prosser (Amy Adams) he sees a real opportunity. Once he arrests the pair for running a real estate con he then offers them immunity if they help set up a sting to ensnare corrupt politicians. However, as the plot unfolds ethical questions come to the forefront. The line between the good guys and the bad guys blur. I began to wonder if criminals were being caught or is entrapment happening here? Enter Jennifer Lawrence who plays Irving Rosenfelds' ex-wife Rosalyn with a loudmouth charm. Rosalyn has problems with substances, with her phobias, with social situations, and in the process steals the show. Sounds serious, and is, but there are plenty of laughs along the way. Soon it is hard to tell who is conning who. There are twists and turns and an unpredictability that keeps you guessing. This is a great film in so many ways. "American Hustle" has a look and feel that should carry it all the way to the awards season.
This is a good date movie.
I give this film a grade of: A
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