American Hustle (2013)

American Hustle (2013) Trailer

This is a story about a con man and his partner being forced to work for an ambitious FBI agent to bust four more con man.

I think the theme of the story is about surviving and struggling by climbing up the ladder to be someone who you are not born to be.

The premise of the story is interesting because it first explores the life of how a con man and woman work together to run a scam. And then when the FBI steps in, their world is turned upside down. And when the ambitious FBI agent wants to expose the corrupted politicians, which involves dealing with mafia, things start to get out of control.

Plot-wise is only so-so. The plot doesn't go anywhere and is all over the place.

Characters, however, are much more intriguing.  Christian Bale's character Irving is lousy, irresponsible and selfish. However messy his outlook is, he is charismatic enough to manipulate people to get what he wants.  Amy Adam's character Sydney is a very attractive woman who knows how to utilize her assets to also get what she wants. She is clever and sexy. All she wants is Irving to leave her neurotic wife and give his heart to her.  Bradley Cooper's character Richie is ambitious and knows exactly what he wants. He has such a bad temper that he beat up his boss when he denied his request for the investigation. I don't sympathize Irving because he doesn't know what he wants, unlike Sydney and Richie, and he is afraid of changes.  Robert De Niro has a small role, but his role as a mob boss is very funny and unforgettable.

There are quite a number of interesting dialogue in the story. Rosalyn, Jennifer Lawrence's character has quite a number of hilarious lines, especially the scenes which she argues with Irving about microwave and the plan.

Overall speaking, it's worth watching this movie for the acting. All actors and actresses played their part well and are very convincing.  Casting director has done a good job. Maybe the writer wrote the characters especially for the actors and actresses.

Movies & Music are inseperable! I'm Not There. (2007), Walk the Line (2005)

After my first guitar lesson, I found myself fallen in love with Rock’n’ Roll. I found some of the songs on the top 500 of Rolling Stones Magazine.


Like a Rolling Stone


In My Life


Like a Rolling Stone
In My Life
I Want To Hold Your Hand
Hotel California
(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction
Staying Alive
Walk the Line
Stairway to Heaven

And I bought some biographical movies, namely, I’m Not There (on Bob Dylan) and Walk the Line (on Johnny Cash).


I'm Not There (2007)


Walk the Line (2005) Trailer


I quickly scan the biography and discography of some legend bands and singers, including Bee Gees, the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones, John Lennon, etc. I am interested in who influence them, and how they can fully develop their talents. Their stories are inspiring.

I believe not all people can start to develop their talents when they are young. Some people are not able to find their talents at all. Of course not everybody can be a rock star. But if you know what you are interested in and what you are capable of, you are already very fortunate. No matter how hard it takes, go for your dream.

Believe in yourself. And don’t look back.