"Some of this actually happened" is the disclaimer/warning at the beginning of this wannabe 70s movie. I say, wannabe, because it obviously is trying to catch the Sidney Lumet vibe of many of those great movies. In the end it is like a copy of a copy of a copy, somewhat faded, but you still can read the outlines.
The movie owes a lot to Argo, a modern movie about a 70s story. Christian Bale and Amy Adams are Irving and Edith, a pair of small-time swindlers. When they are busted by FBI agent, Bradley Cooper, they are brought in as bait for larger fish, in this case Mayor of Camden, NJ, Carmine Pilito and the rebirth of Atlantic City.
Director David O. Russell, fresh off the success of Silver Linings Playbook, has brought back his case of Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence and even an uncredited Robert DeNiro (wouldn't be a mob movie without him). Jennifer Lawrence is the modern day female version of Robert Duvall - every movie she is in is good. She steals the show as Irving's wife as the straw that stirs the drink. Unfortunately she has more a supporting part - more of her please.
Bradley Cooper plays the same character as always: the psychotic but charming ass. It worked in Silver Linings Playbook when he at least has the excuse of mental defect, but as an FBI agent, it is nearly silly: living with his mom, berating (and more) his boss (Louis C.K.). The train needs to leave this guy behind.
Christian Bale does a nice job as Irving. With this ensemble, it's hard to tell who the important characters are. Amy Adams is excellent as Lady Edith, using her sexuality to get ahead and reinvent herself. Irving is somewhat conflicted: he says that the Mayor is his best friend, but he sells him out early on.
In the end, the movie trys too hard to tell a story that probably didn't happen and ends up somewhat contrived.
* * * of 4
The nostalgia is evident in the costuming, hairstyles and set design. It is a more serious version of a movie just release but unworthy of a real review: Anchorman 2 ( 1 1/2 stars). The mutton chops, the three piece colored suits, the plaids. It is in both cases a little over the top.
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