A New Era for Lights

including a couple of great montages. But with success comes a price, especially when dealing with not only the shady side of American law enforcement but drug lords and dictators, including the infamous Pablo Escobar. We know things aren’t going to end well for Seal, but this film is about the ride, and it’s an amazing one.

Credit the trifecta of Cruise, Liman and screenwriter Gary Spinelli for pulling off one of the most fascinating rags to riches movies in recent memory. Seal’s saga is enthralling from beginning to end. “American Made” provides a whole lot of layers - each with a legitimate purpose to the overall outcome. And, thanks to Liman’s previously mentioned stylistic tricks, the complex script is easy to follow.

Cruise is in nearly every scene, many while in the cockpit. He’s listed as an Aerostar and Cessna Stunt Pilot in the final credits, but his acting also deserves high marks. With Seal, Cruise puts his spin on the “everyman” character - and we’re with him every step of the way.

This is a one-of-a-kind approach to one-of-a-kind source material. It’s slick, funny and daring. And like “Edge of Tomorrow,” there’s a surprising amount of depth that allows “American Made” to rise above “guilty pleasure” status. This is one of the most enjoyable films of 2017.