Directed by David O. Russell, the film stars Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, and Jeremy Renner. Irving Rosenfeld (Bale) is a con man who, along with his "British" partner Sydney Prosser (Adams), runs a successful New York-based scheme. When they are shut down by the FBI, agent Richie DiMaso (Cooper) employs them to work for the Bureau in uncovering corruption and mafia ties in New Jersey, targeting one of the state's most prominent politicians, Carmine Polito (Renner). Left largely behind from this world is Irv's wife Rosalyn (Lawrence), whose occasional bouts of lunacy threaten the entire operation. If there is one word I'd use to describe this film, it's "overrated." Bale is excellent in his role, definitely deserving of an Oscar nomination (although competition is so tight this year that it's uncertain he'll get one), but quite honestly, I found the rest of the performances quite average. Adams, Cooper and Renner do a fine job, but not up to par to some of their previous work. Lawrence has received a lot of praise and has gained considerable awards attention for her role, but I just don't understand it. This is almost the same role for which she won her Oscar last year, but this one is much more unremarkable. Frankly, I don't think she even deserves an Oscar nomination, but hey, that's just me. The film's pace alternated between electric and funny to quite slow and boring. It was my least favorite of the three David O. Russell films I've seen (The Fighter and Silver Linings Playbook being the other two), but it has redeeming qualities in the smart direction, sharp screenplay, and talented actors.
Should you see it: Yes
Grade: B
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