The American: Blu Ray Review

The American: Blu Ray Review

The American
Rating: R16
Released by Universal

George Clooney stars as Jack, an assassin, who's been ordered to lie low in Italy after his cover in Sweden is blown, resulting in a bloodbath.

While there he befriends an elderly priest, falls for a prostitute Clara (Violante Placido) and takes on one last job.

However, the demons of the past are catching up with him.

Deceptively shot and simply made, The American is a thrilling ride.

With a restrained performance from Clooney, it's hard to root for this assassin as we learn very little about him - many shots are of him constructing a gun or merely going about his day to day business while waiting for the storm to blow over. Clooney's rarely been better than when he plays against type - and this is no exception.

It's a good solid turn from Clooney which sees you sucked into empathizing with him very early on - even if the opening does shock you.

It's a gradually building, well acted and restrained drama which has you in its vice like grip as the final moments play out.

Extras: Deleted scenes, making of and commentary - nothing wildly exciting but solid nonetheless

Rating: 8/10