Review of American Made (2017) by Angel B — 06 Sep 2017

American Made (2017) tells the true story of pilot Barry Seal and his simultaneous dalliance with CIA and criminals, and it's an enjoyable, involving affair to watch. Tom Cruise is outstanding as Seal in a performance that fuels the film with boundless, thrill-seeking energy.

If anything, he may have made the character a little too bad-ass! 'Based' on a true story, the film is more playful than historically potent, but that lively spirit mirrors the central protagonist perfectly.

The story flows seamlessly with short bursts of meaningful, stylish action neatly embedded between engaging plot and historical exposition. The film's handling of tonal shifts is especially commendable: spirited entertainment and gripping tension are established without any spoon-feeding.

American Made (2017) flows with charisma, drawing appeal in spite of occasional untrustworthiness (like Barry Seal himself!).