The American

Couldn’t get through it, very boring, nothing seems to happen. Might need to rewatch with people to see if I was just missing something

Very stiff, very heavy handed movie. An archetype is not enough for a plot or script :/
The twist was literally stated to the audience & there was no theme or heart to the story at all. Very mid.

Wanted to be an optimist and give it a meh because some shots are pretty well done. But man too slow and boring

Couldn’t get through it, very boring, nothing seems to happen. Might need to rewatch with people to see if I was just missing something

Wanted to be an optimist and give it a meh because some shots are pretty well done. But man too slow and boring

Rating: 5.9/10 ⭐️

The Good:

• Visually Stunning: The film is impeccably composed, with Martin Ruhe's cinematography transforming the Abruzzo region of Italy into a character in its own right—both beautiful and isolating.
• Powerful Performance: George Clooney delivers a restrained performance as Jack/Edward, conveying weariness and deep-seated paranoia through subtle glances and quiet actions.
• Atmospheric Direction: Anton Corbijn's direction is patient and confident, drawing influence from classic European cinema and Westerns, giving the film a timeless, art-house quality.

The Not So Good:

• Slow Pace: The film's deliberate pace can feel alienating and draining for viewers expecting a conventional action-packed thriller.
• Limited Character Development: The minimalist approach can make it difficult for viewers to connect with the characters on an emotional level, potentially perceiving them as cold or distant.
• Mismatched Expectations: The marketing may have created mismatched expectations, as the film is more of an anti-thriller, prioritizing mood and atmosphere over plot and action.

The Verdict:
The American is a beautifully crafted, melancholic neo-western disguised as an assassin thriller. While its glacial pace may not be for everyone, it's a rewarding watch for patient viewers who appreciate meticulous filmmaking and understated performances. The film lingers, leaving an impression of beautiful, sun-drenched loneliness.