films like american made

Guri Bee

3 min read

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22-10-2024

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Beyond the Cocaine: Films that Capture the American Dream's Dark Side

American Made, the 2017 biographical crime comedy starring Tom Cruise, captivated audiences with its thrilling story of Barry Seal, a pilot who became a major drug smuggler for the CIA and Medellín Cartel. The film expertly blends humor, action, and a chillingly real portrayal of the American Dream's darker side, leaving viewers questioning the lines between morality and opportunity.

But American Made isn't alone in its exploration of this complex theme. Here, we delve into other films that echo the themes of ambition, greed, and the consequences of bending the rules in pursuit of success, while exploring the cinematic landscape beyond the familiar territory of drug trafficking.

Beyond the Cocaine: Similar Themes, Different Stories

• Goodfellas (1990) by Martin Scorsese: This classic gangster film follows the rise and fall of Henry Hill, a young man drawn into the world of organized crime. Similar to American Made, Goodfellas depicts the allure of a glamorous lifestyle, juxtaposed against the grim realities of violence and betrayal. It provides a deeper exploration of the intricate workings of criminal organizations and the psychology of those involved, creating a more nuanced portrait of the American Dream's distortion.

Question from GitHub: "What are some of the key themes of Goodfellas?"

Answer from GitHub (by user "TheMasterOfShadows"): "Some key themes include the allure of power and wealth, the corrupting influence of power, the fragility of loyalty, and the consequences of a life of crime."

Analysis: The answer highlights themes that resonate deeply with the exploration of the American Dream in American Made. Both films explore the allure of easy wealth and power, and the dangerous consequences of prioritizing those goals above all else.

• Scarface (1983): Another iconic gangster film, this time focusing on the rise and fall of Cuban refugee Tony Montana, who becomes a ruthless drug lord. Scarface shares the themes of ambition and greed with American Made, but it takes a darker, more brutal approach, showcasing the destructive nature of unchecked power and the consequences of sacrificing morality for success.

Question from GitHub: "What is the significance of the line "Every time I make a little progress, I get pushed back down, down, down! I want to go to the top. I want to be the king!"?

Answer from GitHub (by user "TonyMontanaFan"): "This line perfectly encapsulates Tony Montana's ambition and relentless drive for power. He feels like he's constantly being held back, and his desire to reach the top fuels his ruthlessness and violence."

Analysis: This answer sheds light on Tony Montana's motivations, similar to Barry Seal's drive for a better life and his willingness to engage in illegal activities to achieve it. Both characters embody the American Dream's promise of self-made success, yet their pursuit leads them down a path of moral compromise.

• The Wolf of Wall Street (2013) by Martin Scorsese: This film follows Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who builds a fortune through illegal schemes. While not directly about drug trafficking, The Wolf of Wall Street echoes American Made's exploration of the American Dream's darker side through the lens of Wall Street excess and the corruption that thrives within a seemingly legitimate system. It highlights the seductive nature of wealth and power, and the dangers of unchecked ambition.

Question from GitHub: "What is the significance of the scene where Jordan Belfort throws a dwarf across the room?"

Answer from GitHub (by user "WallStreetCritic"): "This scene is meant to shock and highlight Belfort's arrogance and disregard for others. He sees himself as above the law and those around him, and he feels entitled to do whatever he wants."

Analysis: While the scene is shocking, it highlights Belfort's character arc. He represents the American Dream gone wrong, fueled by greed and a sense of entitlement. This resonates with Barry Seal's journey, as both characters find themselves caught up in a cycle of increasingly unethical behavior to achieve their goals.

Beyond the Screen: The Enduring Appeal

These films transcend their individual stories to offer a critical examination of the American Dream. They challenge viewers to consider the costs of pursuing success, the seductive nature of power, and the consequences of prioritizing personal gain over morality. While each film offers a unique perspective, they all expose the potential for corruption and exploitation that can arise when ambition and greed collide.

By exploring these themes, films like American Made, Goodfellas, Scarface, and The Wolf of Wall Street offer a powerful and timely reflection on the enduring allure of the American Dream and the dangers that lurk beneath its surface.