Amsterdam

This movie is a bit long at over 2 hours but is written, acted, and directed in a style that is interesting all the way. There is quirkiness, sometimes it reminded me of Wes Anderson's movies, like "The Grand Budapest Hotel." The character played by Christian Bale, a disheveled doctor who lost an eye in the war, reminded us of Peter Faulk's 1970s TV series Columbo in his mannerisms and his quest to find out facts.

While this is almost entirely a fictional story it is loosely based on something that was called "The Business Plot." Roosevelt was newly elected and a group of businessmen didn't like the direction things were headed. So they hatched a plan to overthrow the President.

But very little of the running time is actually devoted to that, most of it has the three main characters, accused of murdering a woman by pushing her into the street to be run over by a delivery truck, working to prove their innocence and to focus in on the real bad actors.

My wife and I watched it at home on DVD from our public library, a totally interesting and entertaining take on the times.

I could not decide if I liked this movie as I was watching it. I knew it was unique with fully loaded star power and great performances but the pacing and story had me scratching my head and even bored at times. I kept checking how much longer the movie had (HBOMax) more than a few times but didn't give up on it. I'm glad I stayed with it. It's a 2 1/2 hour movie but when I finally reached the two hour mark all of a sudden the two previous hours I invested paid off. The story came together quickly and had a surprisingly satisfying ending. This movie is definitely not for everyone. It requires a lot of patience and your full attention but I found it a worthwhile endeavor. Much of it is based on real events. A who's who of A-list actors throughout giving solid performances. Critics panned this movie unfairly in my opinion. What Director Russell created was no easy task. Beautifully filmed with many memorable scenes. I would definitely recommend watching it.

I approached "Amsterdam" with foreboding because of its many negative reviews, but it turned out to be fun, suspenseful, and with great acting performances by all. And along the way the movie highlighted the difficult path of WWI veterans after the war, and brought up a now little-know plot against Roosevelt by some big businessmen.

The period clothing, cars, and etc. Were superb. As another reviewer stated, Christian Bale was awesome, but Zoe Saldana and David Washington, along with DeNiro, made the movie special.

There were shots depicting the horrible injuries incurred in WWII, and the suffering vets continued to have when they arrived back in the States.

Altogether a surprisingly coherent movie, despite what most reviewers had said.

This is a great movie, especially important given how pre-fascist history is repeating itself in 2025. It begins, like most conspiracies, with the curtains drawn on the hidden plot, but that plot becomes very real and terrifying as the movie progresses. Bale, Robbie and Washington are all perfectly cast, and DeNiro is right at home as the linchpin of the story.

As a period drama (1918 and 1933), Amsterdam is extremely effective in describing the era between the two world wars. Costumes and music are well chosen. Especially intriguing, and somewhat horrifying. Is the depiction of cosmetic surgery to hide war wounds.

Highly recommended: although I fear too many conservatives won't want to believe these same dangers are at our doorstep again.

"Amsterdam" is a Mystery - Crime movie set in the 1930s and film follows a trio of unlikely friends who become entangled in a conspiracy that could change the course of history.

I liked this movie because of its interesting plot and its impressive cast. The narrative was intriguing and engaging but in some moments became convoluted, lost focus and momentum. The blend of humor, mystery, and political commentary occasionally feels uneven, leaving the audience unsure of whether to take it seriously or simply enjoy the chaotic ride. The interpretation of Christian Bale who played as Dr. Burt Berendsen was both quirky and outstanding while the supporting cast, especially Margot Robbie who played as Valerie Voze and John David Washington who played as Harold Woodman, were somewhat underutilized. The movie's visual style is vibrant and engaging and contains some memorable moments. In conclusion, I have to say that "Amsterdam" had the potential of being an amazing movie but its overstuffed plot and inconsistent tone make it a bit of a letdown. It's still an enjoyable movie to watch but I suggest you not to expect much.