American Made (2017) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
American Made (2017), directed by Doug Liman, is a high-octane biographical crime drama that blends action, comedy, and suspense to tell the true story of Barry Seal, a pilot who found himself entangled in a web of drug smuggling and espionage during the 1980s. With Tom Cruise delivering a charismatic performance and a plot that zips through the highs and lows of Seal’s tumultuous life, American Made offers an entertaining and fast-paced cinematic experience.
Plot Summary
American Made is based on the real-life story of Barry Seal, a TWA pilot who becomes a drug smuggler for the Medellín Cartel and a CIA informant, leading a double life filled with danger and deceit. The film begins with Seal (Tom Cruise) working as a commercial pilot, but his life takes a dramatic turn when he is recruited by the CIA to fly covert surveillance missions over Central America.
Seal’s success in these missions catches the attention of the drug cartels, who offer him a lucrative deal to transport cocaine into the United States. As Seal juggles his roles as a pilot, smuggler, and informant, he becomes embroiled in a chaotic series of events that lead to his involvement in the Iran-Contra affair.
The film’s narrative is a rollercoaster ride through Seal’s rise and fall, showcasing his adventurous escapades, the moral compromises he makes, and the eventual consequences of his actions. The story is told with a mix of humor and tension, highlighting the absurdity and danger of Seal’s life on the edge.
Cast and Performances
Tom Cruise delivers a standout performance as Barry Seal, capturing the character’s charm, bravado, and vulnerability. Cruise’s portrayal of Seal is both entertaining and engaging, bringing a sense of authenticity to the role. His dynamic performance drives the film’s energy and helps maintain the audience’s interest throughout Seal’s tumultuous journey.
The supporting cast includes Domhnall Gleeson as Monty Shafer, the CIA operative who recruits Seal, and Sarah Wright as Seal’s wife, Lucy. Gleeson’s performance adds a layer of complexity to the film’s depiction of government involvement in Seal’s operations, while Wright’s portrayal of Lucy provides a grounding element to Seal’s personal life and the impact of his actions on his family.
The film also features memorable performances by Jesse Plemons and Caleb Landry Jones, who contribute to the film’s overall sense of chaos and unpredictability.
Direction and Cinematography
Doug Liman’s direction of American Made is energetic and brisk, perfectly suited to the film’s fast-paced narrative. Liman’s previous work in action-packed films like The Bourne Identity and Edge of Tomorrow is evident in the film’s seamless blend of action, humor, and drama. His direction keeps the story engaging and ensures that the film’s numerous twists and turns are both thrilling and coherent.
The cinematography by César Charlone complements Liman’s direction with a vibrant and dynamic visual style. The film’s use of vivid colors and quick cuts enhances the sense of urgency and excitement, while the aerial shots of Seal’s flying missions add a sense of grandeur and scale to the story.
The film’s soundtrack, featuring a mix of classic 80s hits and upbeat tracks, further amplifies the energetic tone of the film, adding to its overall appeal.
Themes and Interpretation
American Made explores themes of ambition, risk-taking, and moral ambiguity. Barry Seal’s character embodies the pursuit of the American Dream, but his methods are fraught with ethical compromises and illegal activities. The film delves into the consequences of living a double life and the impact of ambition on personal and professional relationships.
The depiction of Seal’s involvement in drug smuggling and espionage highlights the blurred lines between legality and criminality, as well as the often chaotic nature of government operations during the era. The film provides a critical look at how individuals can become entangled in larger political and criminal schemes, and the personal costs of such entanglements.
Where to Watch American Made (2017) Online
For those interested in watching American Made, there are several streaming and rental/purchase options available, particularly in the United States.
- Streaming Services:
- Amazon Prime Video: American Made is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Subscribers can watch the film in HD and enjoy the convenience of on-demand viewing.
- Hulu: The film is also available for streaming on Hulu, offering another option for viewers who prefer this platform.
- Rental/Purchase Options:
- Apple iTunes: For those who prefer to rent or purchase the film, Apple iTunes offers American Made in both HD and SD formats. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to own the film or watch it on-demand.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play provides the film for rent or purchase in HD, allowing viewers to enjoy the film on various devices.
- Vudu: Vudu offers American Made for rental or purchase, often featuring special promotions or discounts, making it a cost-effective choice for movie enthusiasts.
- YouTube Movies: Available for rent or purchase, YouTube Movies provides a user-friendly platform for watching American Made.
- Other Platforms:
- Microsoft Store: The film is also available for rental or purchase on the Microsoft Store, catering to users who prefer watching movies on their Windows devices or Xbox consoles.
Why You Should Watch American Made (2017)
American Made is a thrilling and entertaining film that combines the excitement of a high-stakes crime drama with the humor and charm of Tom Cruise’s performance. The film’s fast-paced narrative, engaging characters, and impressive visuals make it a standout entry in the biographical crime genre.
The story of Barry Seal’s life is both fascinating and cautionary, offering a glimpse into the high-risk world of drug smuggling and government intrigue. The film’s blend of action, comedy, and drama ensures that it remains engaging from start to finish, making it a great choice for fans of true crime stories and high-energy thrillers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, American Made (2017) is a captivating and action-packed film that brings the incredible true story of Barry Seal to life. With its dynamic performances, energetic direction, and thrilling narrative, the film is a must-watch for fans of biographical dramas and action-packed thrillers. Be sure to explore the available streaming services or rental/purchase platforms to enjoy this exciting movie online.
