Under the lens takes a deep look at films by focusing in on one or two particular areas of the picture that helped to define it for better or for worse. Spoilers will be included in this review.
American Assassin is an action thriller directed by Michael Cuesta and stars Dylan O’Brien, Michael Keaton, Sanaa Lathan, and Taylor Kitsch. It follows the story of Mitch Rapp who after the death of his girlfriend at the hands of terrorists is drawn into the world of counterterrorism and then is mentored by tough-as-nails former U.S. Navy S.E.A.L. Stan Hurley.
Under The Lens: Character actors and transformation
Character actors: One of the high lights of this motion picture is the bevy of character actors who popular its cast. A character actor is an actor who plays one type of character but changes it up from one picture to the next, Taylor Kitsch and Michael Keaton both shine in the roles they play. Taylor Kitsch is one of the great character actors of the last 10 years and is sadly overlooked after the failure of John Carter and Battleship, he brings a vicious tragedy to this role, Michael Keaton as the grizzled mentor of Dylan O’Brien‘s character is a treat to watch as he chews the scenery every time he is on camera.
Transformation: Dylan O’Brien is known for mostly young adult fare, really put in the work to transform himself for this role. He is almost unrecognizable as he put on a massive amount of muscle and a beard, it really added to the picture that he was willing to go to such extremes to change himself for the role, it also allowed him to do many of his own stunts, which added to the realism.
Highlights
The objective of the villain is original and has not been seen before on film.
The action is slick and at times brutal but well-executed
Something to think about
Have you read the novels this motion picture is based on? If so what did you think of them?
Conclusion
Overall American Assasin is a well shot and enjoyable terrorist thriller, its villains objective is original as is its hero’s transformation from vigilante to CIA spook. The picture is an action picture through and through, so the characters outside the lead are a little flimsy, as they take a backseat to the action. American Assasin is the epitome of the Saturday matinee style film, and is best enjoyed with a friend who enjoys a good action yarn.
