The American

[Usivius]

Firstly, do not believe the trailers: this is not an action movie. Similar to "In Brugue" this movie was badly advertised ... but then again, as we had this discussion in the past, it is the trailer-maker's job to sell the movie. It's just unfortunate that they are selling the wrong kind of film, and those who are not as understandin as I, will be (and have been) disappointed.
This is a character-study with a few action bits. It is a methodically paced movie with not an entirely sympathetic character.

Having said that, it is a really good movie. Very European flavour to this. Gorgeously shot! Wow, they take full advantage of the fantastic landscapes and small Italian towns. Stunning.
All the actors are doing a great job. Clooney is playing an assassin version of the character he played in "Up in the Air". Same type of guy and lifestyle (except for the assassin part). All well done.
Having said that, the story is fairly straight-forward, and nothing we have not seen before many times. It's just that it is done really well.

Overall I give it an 8 out of 10.

[danlo]

Watched The American last night-three solid stars-great Italian scenery, beautiful women. Haven't seen such hot chicks in an Assassin movie since Julianne Moore in Assassins. The American was a much better written story, however--I'd kind of like to read A Very Quiet Gentleman-the book it was based on.