American Made stars Tom Cruise as Barry Seal, a real life airline pilot who was apparently recruited by the CIA to take photos of communist countries – a job that led to him becoming first a people smuggler, then a drug runner for a Colombian cartel. Soon he’s literally earning more money than he knows what to do with, but this gravy train is destined to come to a shuddering end.

RATED: American Made is rated MA15+ for Strong Coarse Language

AUDIENCE: Aimed at people who like a bit of ‘strange but true’ in their stories, as well as the usual action Tom Cruise brings

WHAT’S GOOD: It’s classic Cruise all the way, complete with boyish grins and action scenes

WHAT’S NOT: The story of American Made proceeds to a relatively predictable conclusion, like many ‘too good to last’ storylines, so you find yourself mainly being amused by the details

SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING: Only a fool plays with fire and doesn’t expect to get burnt – and Barry does come to regret his choice sincerely. But he doesn’t repent. That would involve admitting he was wrong, turning around and heading in a new direction. Something impossible without God.

RELEASE DATE: August 24


Mark Hadley

Mark Hadley is a professional writer and media commentator with nearly 30 years of experience across film, television, and print. He has written for major broadcasters including the ABC, SBS, BBC, and PBS, and specialises in cultural analysis with a particular focus on film and television. Mark reviews movies and pop culture for Hope 103.2 and is a published author and regular public speaker on media and culture.

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