Freed from the journalistic tenet of accuracy, director David O. Russell has been given a script that is tailor-made for his clever understanding of acting dynamics and obtuse humour.
Director: David O. Russell
Cast: Christian Bale, Bradley Cooper, Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro
Rating: (M)
4 stars (out of 5)
The two main protagonists in this caper, loosely based on an FBI operation in the late '70s to round up corrupt politicians, are con artists Irving (Christian Bale) and Sydney (Amy Adams).
Bale's portly figure and elaborate comb-over superbly accentuate his role as a sleazy trickster. Adams' consummate understanding of role and execution of an upper-class English accent suck you into the intricate web that Russell has in store.
His understanding of pacing and screen craft elevate American Hustle beyond what could have been a paint-by-numbers undercover crime tale and he demonstrates his skill at working with actors across a variety of genres and themes.
Bradley Cooper, as cocky FBI agent Richie Di Maso and Jennifer Lawrence, as his estranged wife, are great characters, but picking a standout from this impressive ensemble is pretty reductive.
Mercilessly funny and bristling with tension at the same time, American Hustle is a triumph of cleverly written characters giving an acting master class under the watchful eye of a director who knows what strings to pull.
Best thing: A soundtrack that superbly captures the mood and essence of the film.
Worst thing: Not finding a little more room in the script for Robert De Niro's mafia boss.
See it with: Anyone who likes Scorcese, gangsters, '70s period detail and great acting.
By Mark Orton.
