Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on January 2014

The film leads off with the declaration, “Some of this actually happened.” This is 1) a refreshing take on the trite “based on/inspired by true events” hogwash, and 2) the only honest statement you’ll find in this hugely entertaining assemblage of lies, disguises, deceits, double-crosses, scams, stings, bluffs and cons. Very loosely based on the FBI’s ABSCAM sting of the ’70s, this is the story of two small-time con-persons/lovers (Christian Bale & Amy Adams) who get caught in the act by an insanely ambitious FBI agent (Bradley Cooper). But instead of putting them behind bars, he uses them to set up other stings that will advance his career. Bale, in potbelly and preposterous comb-over, is nearly unrecognizable. This can’t be Batman! And it’s a career best for Adams. Add to that Jennifer Lawrence displaying yet another facet as Bale’s space-cadet wife. Loved the vintage ‘70s jukebox hits that brilliantly (even relevantly) enhance certain scenes. David O. Russell (Silver Linings Playbook, The Fighter) juggles multiple story lines with awesome virtuosity to create a film that’s alive, intoxicating, warm and moving. A twisted tale well told. This is why we go to the movies. I want to see it again. (138 min)