The film which stars Christian Bale, Margot Robbie, and John David Washington is an eclectic one that features one of the most unique and strangely comedic screenplays of 2022. Loosely based on the true story of the Business Plot of 1933, a trio of dynamic characters attempt to prevent the overthrow of the U.S. government and President by a secret group of Nazi sympathizers. The central trio is tied to a murder plot that just so happens to be connected to the fictionalized political scheme.
The resulting episode is definitely a bit too long and heavy on unneeded side plots and characters, but is glued together by the camaraderie of Bale, Robbie and Washington. Capping off their team-up is a delightful Robert DeNiro bringing a serious but tongue in cheek dramatic balance to the otherwise laughable script. The cast is rounded out by Michael Shannon, Chris Rock, Rami Malek, Taylor Swift in a minor role, Andrea Riseborough (Mandy), Anya Taylor-Joy, Mike Meyers, and numerous others.
Setting aside the director's problematic and storied past, Russell's Amsterdam is a hilarious whodunit of sorts that relies heavily on Bale's skill set to carry the core of the movie with Robbie and Washington in his corner as a balance for his unbridled talent. This is a brand new and ultra funny Bale that's almost unrecognizable against his previous starring roles. It's nice to see him further his resume and change it up again. He's built a long career which has seen him become a chameleon in his dramatic choices. Amsterdam only furthers his set of unique and strange characters.
Despite the generally unfavorable response to Amsterdam so far, it was a fun watch. Yes, the movie is a cluttered mess of the highest caliber. Story points clash. Side characters come and go. But at the heart, Russell's work here is a vast improvement over his last theatrical bow, 2015's thematically challenged Joy starring Jennifer Lawrence. Perhaps its his sprawling vision that drew us into Amsterdam. Assembled casts like these barely happen anymore. And unique stories of forgotten heroics get set aside for massive budget action and comic book movies. Russell's movie is perfectly timed during the barren fall release schedule and the oncoming glut of Christmas blockbusters.
At the heart, Amsterdam is a jumbled mash-up that's almost too big in scope and story. But the cinematography and dedication to character study is on point. We're definitely going against the grain on this one.
-CG
