DVD Review – February 2019 – Mark David Hatwood

American Animals – Starring Evan Peters and Blake Jenner, Directed by Bart Layton

Spencer Reinhard, Warren Lipka, Eric Borsuk and Chas Allen are four friends who live an ordinary existence in Kentucky. After a visit to Transylvania University, Lipka comes up with the idea to steal the rarest and most valuable books from the school’s library. As one of the most audacious art heists in U.S. history starts to unfold, the men question whether their attempts to inject excitement and purpose into their lives are simply misguided attempts at achieving the American dream.
Forgiving the fact that both the title and cover look more akin to a gangster thriller, this is a very watchable film. Based on a true story, this quite unbelievable story is really well told cutting between the actual characters portraying and in some cases excusing their misguided decisions.
A frightening example of just how a pack-animal reaction can get out of hand and lead otherwise ordinary people to do extraordinary things.
Verdict: Very watchable and one to catch, if nothing else, to see how one can be so easily led. ****
This film will be shown at The Harbour Club, Portscatho on Tuesday 5th February

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