Is American Hustle Based on a True Story? Check Plot, Review, and More
by Janani
Updated Apr 10, 2023
American Hustle
American Hustle is a famous historical black comedy crime film. Although this David O. Russell's 2013 drama, was based on the FBI Abscam operation in the 1970s, which was an undercover investigation aimed at exposing political corruption, many details were altered to make the film more captivating. The movie starts with a disclaimer indicating that "some of this actually happened," revealing to viewers that American Hustle is not entirely based on fact. Despite some fictionalized aspects, the movie was critically acclaimed upon its release, garnering 10 Academy Award nominations, including the prestigious Best Picture award. It also won three BAFTA awards and three Golden Globes.
Is American Hustle based on a True Story?
Yes, American Hustle is based on a true story. Although the characters portrayed in the movie "American Hustle" are not based on real people, they were inspired by real individuals. While the main events depicted in the movie did take place, certain personal details were added for dramatic effect. By incorporating these personal details, director David O. Russell was able to highlight the extent to which people will go to satisfy their desires. At its core, "American Hustle" is a story about individuals who yearned for something so much that they were willing to engage in criminal activities that changed the course of their lives.
The movie revolves around Irving Rosenfeld (played by Christian Bale), a con artist who gets caught in one of his scams and is given the opportunity to work with the FBI to avoid imprisonment. Rosenfeld's mistress, Sydney Prosser (played by Amy Adams), uses her charm to create a fictitious relationship with the FBI agent (played by Bradley Cooper) with whom they are collaborating. Meanwhile, Rosenfeld struggles to maintain his family life for the sake of his adopted son, even as his wife Rosalyn (played by Jennifer Lawrence) becomes increasingly unstable.
American Hustle Ending Explained
In the movie, it is uncovered that Alfonse Simone, the person who Richie had organized the wire transfer with, was actually a con artist who was collaborating with Irving and Sydney. Amado agrees to the deal, and Stoddard eliminates Richie from the case, resulting in the end of his career. The Congressmen are charged, and Carmine, as well, receives an 18-month prison sentence. Irving and Sydney cohabit and establish a legal art gallery, whereas Rosalyn resides with Pete and shares custody of Danny with Irving.
Before that, Irving pays a visit to Carmine and confesses about the scam, promising to aid him. However, Carmine rejects his offer and this deeply saddens Irving, who values their friendship. Later, the federal agents inform Irving that their $2 million is unaccounted for and that they have received an anonymous proposal to return the money in return for granting Irving and Sydney immunity and a reduced sentence for Carmine.
American Hustle Review
The movie is a must-watch as it features a top-notch cast delivering superb performances, and the story itself is both witty and entertaining. The central theme of the movie revolves around the unrelenting and insatiable human desire for more of everything. While some critics have criticized the film's length, I strongly disagree. I found myself captivated by the enchanting background score, the vibrant 80s-style setting, and the exceptional acting by the entire cast. Jennifer Lawrence, in particular, shines in her role, stealing every scene she appears in (even though her screen time is limited). Cooper, Adams, Bale, and the rest of the cast are equally impressive. Overall, American Hustle is a fun and thrilling movie that is worth your time. Russell's direction and storytelling style make it a satisfying and engaging film that outshines "The Wolf of Wall Street" in many aspects.
American Hustle Plot
American Hustle, directed by David O. Russell, is an entertaining crime film set in the '70s. The movie follows the story of con artist Irving Rosenfeld, played by Christian Bale, and his lover Sydney Prosser, portrayed by Amy Adams, who team up to swindle people. They are forced to help an FBI agent, played by Bradley Cooper, who is trying to make a name for himself by catching politicians taking bribes. Meanwhile, Rosenfeld's wife Rosalyn, played by Jennifer Lawrence, poses a threat to their scheme as she is aware of their activities. Russell's direction and his unique style of storytelling make American Hustle a thrilling and satisfying movie that out-Scorseses Martin Scorsese's "The Wolf of Wall Street."
The movie is based on the true story of the Abscam sting operation of the late '70s and early '80s and stars actors from Russell's previous films, including Bale and Adams from "The Fighter," and Cooper and Lawrence from "Silver Linings Playbook." The actors deliver nuanced performances that showcase their versatility. Despite the film's overlong runtime, the infectiously zany vibe around the characters makes it a blast to hang out with them. The movie is big-hearted, which is appropriate for the characters' insatiable greed and brazen schemes. In the end, American Hustle is a fun, thrilling, and entertaining movie that is worth watching.
American Hustle Trailer
Is American Hustle based on a true story - FAQs
American Hustle is a crime film set in the 1970s.
The film stars Christian Bale as Irving Rosenfeld, Amy Adams as Sydney Prosser, Bradley Cooper as FBI agent Richie DiMaso, and Jennifer Lawrence as Irving's wife, Rosalyn. The director, David O. Russell, has a history of working with many of the same actors in his films.
Bradley Cooper plays the role of Richie DiMaso.
Jennifer Lawrence plays the role of Rosalyn Rosenfeld.
David O. Russell is the director of American Hustle.