Great Performances, but Ordinary Film!

Rating: 6/10 (30 December 2013)

David O. Russell, the supremely talented filmmaker of films such as 'The Fighter' & the instant classic 'Silver Linings Playbook', brings us the much awaited crime-comedy 'American Hustle'. Now, does it work?
The Answer is neither a yes or a no. To begin with, the film is blessed with Great Performances by its amazing cast. Its also blessed with O.Russell's Stylish Direction. But what it lacks, most importantly, is a Solid Script. The Writing Material is clichéd, though often funny, its never out-of-the-box or awe-inspiring. Though the film begins brilliantly, the momentum keeps going down, especially, in the last hour. One Expected Much More!
'American Hustle' Synopsis: A con man, Irving Rosenfeld, along with his seductive British partner, Sydney Prosser, is forced to work for a wild FBI agent, Richie DiMaso. DiMaso pushes them into a world of Jersey power-brokers and mafia.
'American Hustle' begins so well, that I thought I was in for a joyride! Unfortunately, the Writing surrenders to clichés & the pace drops. Though the characters & their darker-side kept me engrossed at parts, the story as a whole, isn't captivating enough. Eric Warren Singer & O. Russell's Screenplay underwhelms, though there is some genuine merit in it. O.Russell's Direction is Stylish. He handles this crazy-con affair with much style. Cinematography is fine. Editing isn't sharp. Art & Costume Design are excellent.
Now Coming To The Performances! 'American Hustle' works primarily due to its cast, who deliver so wonderfully. Jennifer Lawrence is astonishing as the nagging wife. She delivers a performance that deserves her an Oscar Nomination for supporting actress. Despite limited screen-time, The Academy-Award-Winner is the show-stopper here! Bradley Cooper enacts the overenthusiastic FBI agent, superbly. Christian Bale as a con-man with a bad hairdo, is simply terrific. Amy Adams as Bale's seductive British partner, bares it all, quite literally! She's first-rate, yet again! Among other performances, Jeremy Renner is not in form this time around, while Robert De Niro is spellbinding in a surprise cameo.
On the whole, 'American Hustle' works in parts, but Fine Acting is undoubtedly its biggest attraction!