A Stylish and Fun Movie!

Rating: 9/10 (20 January 2015)

It's funny to see how a movie that garnered ten Academy Award nominations and nearly unanimous love from the critics is receiving such backlash from the regular moviegoers themselves. I saw it in theaters and I loved it. Now for my second viewing, I did not find it quite as wonderful, but I still loved it. It is a hilarious, stylish adventure that takes a few pages from Martin Scorcese. This movie screams Scorcese, but it has a character-driven approach that David O. Russell knows so well. It is a very fun and hilarious movie and it is quite entertaining to soak in the absurdity of the film.
David O. Russell's film is inspired by the ABSCOM scandal that took place in 1970's/1980's New Jersey. Irving Rosenfeld and Sydney Prosser are two con artists who were caught in a loan scam by FBI agent, Richie DiMaso. DiMaso offers them a release if they participate in his sting operation which will bring down U.S Senators and Congressmen as well as Camden's mayor, Carmine Polito.
The film has an impeccable cast and they all put on a good show. Christian Bale and his wacky hair played an over-the-top con artist quite well. Amy Adams was excellent as his seductive British lover. It's funny to see Bradley Cooper play a dimwit as he does so well here as the FBI agent. Jeremy Renner does an excellent job as Mayor Polito. However, Jennifer Lawrence may have delivered the best performance as Irving's crazy wife, Rosalyn.
Overall, American Hustle is a great movie. It may not be Russell's best, but it may be his most stylish and funny film to date. With the Fighter and Silver Linings Playbook, he is on a role as of late. The film is very stylish and it even made the 1970's attire look appealing. The costumes are bright and colorful. The production design is just as stylish. I also loved the soundtrack to the film, as we get excellent pop songs reflecting the mood of the film. A good film that deserves more credit from the general audience. I rate this film 9/10.