Contrary to its' title, Anton Corbijn's "The American" is a decidedly European endeavor. This film has a thoroughly European feel not merely because Europe functions as its' gorgeous backdrop, but rather because of its' slow-building, simmering suspense. This movie astutely resists the temptation that many American movies fall prey to, the temptation to create suspense via scenes of kinetic mayhem. The structure of "The American" is far more methodical, and in the end, far more rewarding. While it may test the patience of some viewers who thirst immediate gratification, I was transfixed by every frame. This is one of the best films of the year.
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George Clooney stars as Jack, an assassin who spends his days in a moody malaise, deeply dissatisfied with his work and in search of the essence of his true identity. The opening scene of the movie seems to infer that Jack has carved out a peaceful life with a beautiful woman in the beautiful wilderness of Sweden, but then danger and tragedy ensues. Jack is forced to flee to a small town in Italy, where he is skeptically received by many of the locals due to his American heritage. While in Italy, Jack becomes involved with another impeccable beauty, but he continues to live an uneasy existence. The very nature of his profession requires Jack to live a life of secrecy. Many of the people with whom he comes in contact, including a local priest who befriends Jack, question the secrets behind Jack's identity. In many ways, despite his dashing looks and incredible luck with women, Jack is a tormented soul.
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Jack is a character of intense fascination, and that is due in large part to the brilliant performance from the great George Clooney. In the last decade, Clooney has turned in amazing work in "Good Night and Good Luck", "Syriana", "Michael Clayton", and "Up in the Air", to name a few. And while his work in "The American" is significantly more restrained-----it's the quietest, most subdued work of Clooney's career-----it is every bit as satisfying. Jack is an introspective character, a character that requires the actor to do a lot of sad staring. In lesser hands, this character could have presented a major problem. But in the deft hands of Mr. Clooney, Jack carries powerful force. The supporting cast is also terrific. Violante Placido and Thekla Reuten are wonderful as the stunningly beautiful women in Jack's life, and Paolo Benacelli is a revelation as the elderly priest who befriends Jack and seeks to discover his secrets.
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As magnificent as the acting is, however, perhaps the most impressive aspect of "The American" is its' astonishing cinematography. This is certainly the most wondrous film to look at so far this year. Director Anton Corbijn does an amazing job of utilizing the stunning European landscape, and the results are nothing short of extraordinary. The beauty of the Italian scenery serves as a fascinating juxtaposition to the anguish that plagues Jack's existence.
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"The American" is not a film for the impatient. But it is a film for those who appreciate the fine art of suspense. I wish more films were this willing to take some time to establish tension. Anton Corbijn has crafted a spellbinding gem, a film that never lets you out of its' scintillating grip.
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