Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

World-Famous Three Word Review: Everyone gets conned

You know those movies you can tell are good, but don’t understand why?

That’s American Hustle.

It’s a complex examination of deception and corruption. It features some phenomenal acting performances and an outstanding soundtrack.

Yet, it was long and boring at times. I know it is a good movie, just not a very entertaining one.

It took a great deal of thought after exiting the theater to stop my head from spinning and start realizing what went on.

The plot focuses on two con-artists (Christian Bale and Amy Adams) in New York during the 1970s. They are caught by an ambitious FBI agent (Bradley Cooper) who intends on using them to catch bigger con-men.

This leads the unlikely trio (and eventual love triangle) into a scam attempting to catch corrupt politicians in a misguided attempt at glory.

The primary target is a New Jersey mayor (Jeremey Renner) who is genuinely trying to help his city and is only drawn unwittingly into corruption because of the con.
Meanwhile, things are only made more complicated by the bizarre romances between the characters, including Bale’s ignored wife (Jennifer Lawrence).

The most entertaining character in my mind was Cooper’s FBI supervisor, played by comedian Louis CK. Their hilariously abusive relationship highlighted the excellent performance by both actors.