The American

Early September releases are a big question mark in the film release schedule. Usually a George Clooney movie would have enough interest to garner the summer spotlight. The American, however just missed the cut. The film follows Clooney’s Jack, an aging hit man who grows weary of the stresses of his job while in hiding from his own enemies. The premise was not presented very clearly through the shoddy advertising campaign, which more than likely contributed to the lack of buzz the film created. But, in the long run that may have been for the better. The American is not for everyone.

With only minor supporting players preventing this from becoming the Clooney show, the development of the lead was crucial to the film’s overall success. It’s hard to say if the script met such a criteria, but Clooney pushes it that extra inch with a strong performance. He will always be remembered for his charming roles, but his presentation of the character’s numb personality was at the very least convincing. Subtlety is not always the easiest thing for an actor, but Clooney had no trouble at all.

The pace of the film is the aspect that wouldn’t have translated to the summer vacation masses. To be honest, a ton doesn’t happen. Some gunfights and such, but the realism left my stomach in knots more than most blockbusters could. Every time he goes to sleep, or walks down the street, the silence presents an ominous moment that leaves the audience on the edge of their seats paranoid for what’s to come.

While I don’t know the film’s lasting value, it has the feel of a classic with Italian influence both in front of and behind the cameras. The scenes flip-flop between the deep shadows of film noir and the structure of classic Hollywood productions. I have read many reviews where critics judge a picture for borrowing techniques of the past and overlapping styles, however, it’s refreshing to see a well thought out film with focus on tradition and the art of film making. The American shows this can be done without the contentious superiority in the modern independent movement. (9.0 out of 10)