Reviews by:
@augustkellerwrites
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Amsterdam has strong elements but mixed results. Its ambitious script covers mystery, friendship, and politics. Alas, these genres aren't cohesively blended and often feel cumbersome. Humor is lost in the unclear tones, plotlines are convoluted, and the ending is overexplained. Conversely, characters have defined motivations and internal conflicts, themes are relatable, and twists are abundant. Meanwhile, the acting is similarly varied. Bale brings distinct mannerisms, Robbie has chemistry with Taylor-Joy, and there's adequate range. However, beyond that, the performances are unremarkable. Overall, Amsterdam is respectable and sporadically entertaining, but its diluted purpose is disengaging.
Technically, Amsterdam reflects its drama. Strengths like the all-star cast and elaborate production design are offset by clunky pacing and drab color palettes. Even within the editing, techniques like inserts, freeze frames, and montages are outweighed by a bloated structure. The cinematography utilizes movement, lighting, and composition. The era-appropriate music bookends the film, the injury effects are visceral, and the sound is supportive (mostly through voiceovers). Still, because the direction bites off more than it can chew, Amsterdam's craft fails to truly impress. Ultimately, it's a fine film, but given the talent involved, Amsterdam feels like a slight letdown.
Writing: 6/10
Direction: 6/10
Cinematography: 7/10
Acting: 8/10
Editing: 6/10
Sound: 6/10
Score/Soundtrack: 7/10
Production Design: 8/10
Casting: 10/10
Effects: 7/10
Overall Score: 7.1/10
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