Finally, a hero movie that doesn't insult our intelligence. Most of us are so used to feats of strength (heavy objects flying through the air, hard objects bending at will, physical skills that defy science)that we forget basic humanity may be a big part of what makes a person a hero. In this movie, we see how an ordinary man, endowed with certain abnormal skills, exhibits more of his human side than his 'super' side. Human qualities, lack of personal direction, love, sympathy, pleasure, self-destruction, etc, can be characteristic of most movies about heroes, but what we eventually is a dizzying display of special effects, demonstrating what is supposed to be 'super human'. There is always a presumption that certain folks are exceptionally moral and/or ethical and usually guns or super human strength (and the explosions, use of force, testosterone-driven theatrics that accompany it) may be necessary in order that the hero wins the day. Mythical...no doubt. But it focuses on the 'super' as opposed to the 'human'. This movie does a fine job focusing on the human condition and does so in a low-key, humorous way. The characters are somewhat exaggerated as to identify various life forces acting within a particular area of this city. Drug-pushers, young children, disenfranchised vets, etc, all play a roll in a rich chemistry of characters. The 'hero', a fun, conscientious partier, trying to escape responsibility, and who, seemingly, follows the adage 'If you don't know where you're going, stay put until you do!' A vet, helpless in some ways, appreciative and in full contact in others, adds many levels of emotion to the movie and us wonderful in it. Overall, if you're expecting Iron Man...move on. If you're OK with Birdman....you may enjoy the subtleties this movie brings to the table.
Review of American Hero
