Why American Hustle is one of the Greatest Films on American Greed and Capitalism.

American Hustle, 2013

Background

American Hustle is a 2013 American black comedy crime film directed by David O. Russell. It was written by Eric Warren Singer and Russell, inspired by the FBI Abscam operation of the late 1970s and early '80s. It stars Christian Bale and Amy Adams as two con artists who are forced by an FBI agent (Bradley Cooper) to set up an elaborate sting operation on corrupt politicians, including the mayor of Camden, New Jersey (Jeremy Renner). Jennifer Lawrence plays the unpredictable wife of Bale's character.

The Setting and The Nostalgic Atmosphere

Set in the decaying 1970’s tristate area, American Hustle captures the feel of getting by in a completely different time where NYC was on the verge of bankruptcy and businesses and people had to do all they could to stay above water. We saw stark similarities during 2020 when COVID ran rampant. During this time even entrenched establishments like The 21 Club went out of business.

American Hustle is one of those movies where you can easily fall head over heels for the main characters (who are technically the bad guys). It really captures the humanism of each character as well, by diving into all of their flaws and human weaknesses in the relationships they have at home, and outside. Irving, a con artist and the main character, is relatable in so many ways. Irving is a middle aged man with health issues, slightly overweight, balding, and usually dressed to the heels in 3 piece suits. Christian Bale plays Irving, but still somehow looks good in the role, evokes charisma, and commands a strong presence on screen. His chemistry with Amy Adams and Jennifer Lawrence on screen is phenomenal as well.

There are also a variety of comedic tropes throughout the movie and it even includes a few surprise appearances from Louis C.K. who also plays a dull and lackluster FBI agent that Bradley Cooper has to work with.

Music also plays a vital role in "American Hustle," setting the mood and transporting viewers back to the 1970s. We explore the film's eclectic soundtrack, which features a mix of classic tracks from the era, enhancing the atmosphere and adding an extra layer of nostalgia. The music not only complements the storytelling but also becomes an integral part of the film's identity.

The Acting

At the heart of "American Hustle" lies an ensemble cast that delivers powerhouse performances. We delve into the remarkable performances by Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, and Jeremy Renner, examining how they bring depth, complexity, and nuance to their respective characters. The chemistry among the cast members adds another layer of authenticity and intrigue to the film, captivating audiences from start to finish.

The personality of the film really drives home the idea of “fake it till you make it.” The main character, while a con-man, does have morals and priorities and really experiences a lot of character development throughout the film. Christian Bale gives insights into different moments in the movie and through his narration is really able to keep you at the edge of your seat.

Another interesting concept the film explores is how the effort to sell something is just as strong and important as the effort of actually creating it. This is especially true in the art world as well, where easy to replicate paintings can go for millions of dollars. The only thing that separates forgeries from a Rembrandt, the example given in the film, is the art of brokers and dealers monetizing an artist’s brand regardless of the general public’s reception of the art.

Critical Acclaim

The film captivated audiences and critics alike with its stylish storytelling, exceptional performances, and captivating narrative. The critical consensus on rotten tomatoes claims the film is riotously funny and impeccably cast. American Hustle compensates for its flaws with unbridled energy and some of David O. Russell's most irrepressibly vibrant direction.

The film received ten nominations at the 86th Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Actor (Bale), Best Actress (Adams), Best Supporting Actor (Cooper), and Best Supporting Actress (Lawrence), but did not win in any category. It received three BAFTA Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, including Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, and the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture.

From its meticulously crafted characters to its dazzling production design and evocative soundtrack, viewers explore a variety of complex elements that make the film a standout in contemporary cinema. The film's intricate narrative structure, its use of unreliable narrators, and the clever twists and turns all work to keep viewers engaged throughout. David O. Russell's masterful storytelling skills are on display as he seamlessly balances the film's elements of comedy, drama, and suspense, creating a narrative that never fails to surprise.

Roger Ebert explains how David O. Russell out-Scorseses Martin Scorsese with "American Hustle," a '70s crime romp that's ridiculously entertaining in all the best ways. The unreliable narration and urgent zooms, the 1970s milieu of flashily dressed scammers and mobsters, the carefully chosen pop songs underscoring key emotional moments: all those recognizably Scorcesean signatures are there, yet Russell infuses them with his unique brand of insanity.

Conclusion

“American Hustle” is an exceptional film that combines stellar performances, intricate storytelling, stylish production design, and a captivating atmosphere. David O. Russell's directorial finesse, coupled with the brilliant performances by the ensemble cast, immerses viewers in a world of deception and ambition. For all its brashness and big personality, "American Hustle" is a character study at its core—an exploration of dissatisfaction and drive, and the lengths to which we're willing to go for that elusive thing known as a better life.

With its engaging narrative, stunning visuals, and profound thematic exploration, "American Hustle" stands as a cinematic masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences. As we conclude our exploration of this riveting film, we are reminded of its lasting impact and its place among the greats of contemporary cinema.