Review of American Assassin (2017) by S L — 14 Sep 2017

Sure - it's a stereotypical plot - but it sure is fun. O'Brien and Keaton are able to take their characters above the usual clichés. O'Brien in particular keeps Mitch Rapp grounded and real.

It rises the plot above the usual thriller, bang 'em up fare. He makes for a sympathetic lead that you want to see more from. You can feel his motivation in becoming what Rapp becomes - at this point in the timeline, and, for those that have read the books, in the future.

There is less action than what is portrayed in the trailers - but what there is of it, is intense and thrilling. I read American Assassin and liked it. I understand though the changes that the movie made.

The important thing is, they kept the essence of the characters and the story. The scenes between Rapp and Hurley are spot on. I think the filmmakers have created a more realistic path for future Mitch Rapp stories, and I'm looking forward to them.

I agree with Peter Travers of Rolling Stone - the film snobs can screw off. I'm in it for the fun.