Review of American Ultra (2015) by Spangle — 24 Nov 2016

The cinematic version of a laggy internet connection, American Ultra is filmed through a cloud of smoke and that is all too appropriate for this stoner action comedy. Similar to Pineapple Express, the film derives its comedy from placing slow (both in speech and brains) stoners in improbable situations with guns. In fairness, this is a terrific formula for an action comedy. Starring Jesse Eisenberg and Kristen Stewart, American Ultra is the definition of easy watching. It is solidly funny, solidly action-packed, and great for watching on demand. If you pay to watch this film, the joke is really on you.

Comedy-wise, American Ultra largely relies upon the hilarious nature of its premise, as well as its protagonists. Thanks to the good acting from Jesse Eisenberg and Kristen Stewart, this largely works out quite well as the deliver the lines with the right speed and level of curiosity to really drive home the subtly comedy. In many ways, the film mirrors the experience of being around a friend while they are stoned. Initially, it may be thoroughly hysterical. After a while, it does grow grating. Fortunately, American Ultra recognizes this and is mercifully only 90 minutes, which largely prevents it from overstaying its welcome. That said, it does not provoke that many laughs. For a film about a stoner sleeper agent, the film really is quite reserved and does not go for the gold too often. Instead, it is fine with producing decent chuckles along the way, instead of fully committing to the sheer lunacy of its premise.

Where the comedy slacks, the chemistry between Eisenberg and Stewart really shines. First demonstrated in Adventureland, this odd couple duo really work well with one another. American Ultra is no exception as the film is quickly able to develop their romance and relationship with incredible believability. While everything else in the film is ludicrous and over-the-top, the film really manages to craft a solid romance along the way in which their devotion to one another becomes incredibly evident.

In terms of its action, American Ultra certainly delivers the good. With stylish action akin to a Tarantino flick, but with the sped up action moments that, for whatever reason, reminded me of Zombieland due to its casual, yet stylish nature, the film is entertaining. Heavy on blood effects and inventive kills (a man is killed by a spoon...), American Ultra has a ton of fun with its characters and situation. The end result is a largely infectious feeling, instilled by these action sequences. Even better, it never takes itself too seriously and solely seeks to entertain. While the world is crumbling around them, Eisenberg's Mike Howell and Stewart's Phoebe Larson freak out alongside it, but match it with killer instincts when it comes time to fight for their lives. Thus, while quite bloody, the action scenes are intense and worthwhile.

All of this said, American Ultra is never a good film. It is the very definition of a Redbox rental. It is a film you grab because you are too lazy to really try and find something else to watch. However, it is also not a bad film. With solid comedy and good action sequences, as well as typically good performances, there is more going on in American Ultra than meets the eye. Plus, who does not appreciate John Leguizamo hamming it up as a West Virginia gangster? While not the most challenging film ever made, this one is a solidly put together action comedy that under-utilizes its talented cast, but is fun while it lasts.