The cast of David O. Russell's Amsterdam is among the most illustrious ever assembled. Although it doesn't quite have the premise to support them, this is a stunning caper with more notable actors than the Oscars. Russell is a divisive personality who is best known for helming critically acclaimed films like American Hustle and silver Linings Playbook. It seems unlikely that his most recent work would win over those who have been put off by his prior actions. Although occasionally entertaining and well-made, Amsterdam's convoluted premise and flatly-drawn characters drag out what could have been a quick-paced tale of friendship and crime.
When war veteran Bert Berendsen (Christian Bale), who now serves as a back alley physician for other veterans, receives a strange case from his close friend, attorney Harold Woodman, the story of Amsterdam begins (John David Washington). They both knew a man from World war I, and now his daughter (Taylor Swift) is curious as to what occurred. What at first appears to be a straightforward way for Bert and Harold to pay tribute to a man they both respect turns out to be much more complicated, as the two quickly become involved in a sinister plot involving Valerie Voze (Margot Robbie), the third member of the trio they formed during the war, a carefree woman with a troubled past.
Amsterdam appears to be a sure thing on paper. Russell has a proven track record, and his cast includes both nominees and winners of awards. With those factors combined with a complex conspiracy theory, Amsterdam ought to have soared. Russell's ambitions, sadly, get the better of him in this situation. After catching viewers' interest with its introduction, which quickly introduces a stunning murder while establishing Bert's questionable business practises, Amsterdam goes back in time to show how Bert, Harold, and Valerie met. This makes sense because their relationship is meant to be the film's emotional core.
Russell is content to take his time revealing the details despite the fact that the movie is about a horrific conspiracy. This may have been acceptable if the personalities had been stronger, but in Amsterdam, it makes for a less entertaining journey. As Russell solves the riddle at the centre of the story, Amsterdam gains momentum and generates genuine excitement. The plot now has the intensity it needs, and even while the ending may cause some to scratch their heads, it at least ties everything that happened before it together. Still, Amsterdam drags in the middle. Fortunately, everything looks gorgeous.
Amsterdam held a lot of promise with such an impressive ensemble at its core and a captivating story. Certain enjoyable moments can be found here, and viewers who don't mind more complicated stories can definitely relax and enjoy the show. However, as a whole, Amsterdam is quite a disappointment in a few significant areas.