American Hustle is a force to be reckoned with.
Directed by David O. Russell, this comedic crime-drama is somewhat loosely based on the FBI’s Abscam operation of the late 70s and early 80s (names and some details were changed).
Now, this part is where I would usually put in a short synopsis of the film. After many attempts, and much deliberation, here’s my synopsis — everyone is conning everyone else.
If you’d like more detail then that, Google “Abscam.”
Now before all of you “Hustlers” get all defensive, let me say that this film contains some amazing performance by its incredibly impressive cast. Amy Adams and Christian Bale as con artists Irving Rosenfeld and Sydney Prosser, are at their best in their respective parts.
It also is just a gorgeous looking movie. The costumes, makeup, and look of the film is stunning. It really is a crime that it wasn’t nominated for “Best Makeup and Hairstyling.”
However, the plot is too long and is excessively detailed.
The film would have fared better if it stuck a little closer to the facts. Or at least went with a “based on actual events” in its subtitle. It may still be convoluted, but at least it could have played it off as societal commentary.
While the film is entertaining enough, the story lacks that truly satisfying “gotcha” moment. Much like the FBI operation it’s “loosely” based on, the plot feels, well loose. It’s as if they took a so-so story, dressed it up nice, and tried to pass it off as an Oscar winner.
We’ll find out this Sunday if the con worked.
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…just for fun:
