‘American Star’ Review – A Visually Stunning Look Into The Life Of An Aging Hitman

The idea of a hitman has become a bit glamorized in Hollywood. While the John Wick franchise is the most popular title in the genre, there are plenty of action-packed movies, TV shows, and even video games that put the audience in the shoes of a hitman as he or she traverses the challenges of their world.

Esteemed actor Ian McShane, who coincidentally plays a huge role in the Keanu Reeves-led John Wick movies, plays a hitman of a different sort. While most hitman titles are high-octane action, American Star offers something new for viewers. It’s a fresh addition to the genre that stars McShane and is directed by Gonzalo Lopez-Gallego. That isn’t to say that there isn’t any action at all, but the film doesn’t focus on blood and guts during its hour and forty-six-minute runtime.

It’s a nice look into an aging assassin’s realization that life may be more than the isolated existence he’s experienced for so long. It’s an interesting concept. Normally, we see hitmen in their prime, and many titles in the genre even comment on the lack of longevity of an assassin’s life. So, what happens when a hitman has lived to an older age? Is he filled with regrets? Can he do what he once could? And is there hope for a new life eventually?

The two strongest elements of American Star are the locations and McShane himself. First of all, this movie takes place in the Canary Islands, and it’s an absolutely beautiful film. With gorgeous backdrops, the movie almost conveys a dreamlike landscape for the story. It truly is a visually stunning set that heightens the experience of the story.

McShane, who is known for more flamboyant performances, delivers a compelling turn. You feel the weight of Wilson’s (McShane) actions and how they affect him in his older age. When Wilson is sent to assassinate someone and they’re not there, he decides to take a vacation. There, he’s entrapped by the island’s beauty and becomes close with some of the locals. It’s a stark departure from what he’s dealt with his whole life, and you can see his attempt to keep a hold of the little bubble he’s carved out for himself, even when his mission and rivals threaten to burst his safe haven.

The film is focused much more on its character development than action, and that’s really beautiful. Director Lopez-Gallego, who has done horror films in the past, really lets the island and McShane shine. Instead of making a typical hitman movie, he sought to tell a story, and you cannot help but be impressed by the commitment he displayed in showcasing the nuance of a character like Wilson.

American Star might not be the bang-bang shoot ’em up action movies that you’re used to in the genre, but it’s a welcomed departure that offers a wonderful story, beautiful visuals, and a noteworthy performance by McShane. The film is definitely worth a watch!

American Star is currently playing in select theaters and is available on digital platforms courtesy of IFC Films. 

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hb47dUzNUm4]