American Made

American Made

Year: 2017

Runtime: 115 min

Language: English

Director: Doug Liman

ActionBiographyDramaHistoryThrillerComedyCrime

In this pulse-pounding biopic, a charismatic pilot is recruited by the CIA to gather intel on communist threats in Central America. As he becomes embroiled in one of the largest covert operations in US history, Seal's actions inadvertently give rise to the notorious Medellin cartel and threaten to upend the Reagan administration.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – American Made (2017)
Explore the full timeline and setting of American Made (2017). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Late 1970s

The late 1970s was marked by the Cold War, characterized by espionage, political turmoil, and the rise of drug cartels. During this period, the U.S. government was deeply involved in covert operations across Central America, with the backdrop of growing tensions from Soviet-backed insurgents. This era saw significant changes in U.S. foreign policy and the emergence of drug-related issues that would impact society.

Location

Central America, Mena, Arkansas, Panama, Baton Rouge

The movie primarily takes place in Central America during the Cold War, where political tensions are high. Mena, Arkansas, serves as a pivotal hub for cocaine trafficking, transforming the small town into a center of illicit activities. Panama is notable for its connection with General Noriega, while Baton Rouge represents a place of new beginnings for Seal's family after the chaos unfolds.

✈️ Aviation 🌎 Geography 💊 Drug Trafficking

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:54

Main Characters – American Made (2017)
Meet the key characters of American Made (2017), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Barry Seal

Barry Seal is a complex character who initially appears as an ordinary commercial pilot but quickly finds himself embroiled in a web of espionage and drug trafficking. His charisma and risk-taking nature allow him to excel in dangerous missions, but they also lead to his downfall. The duality of his life reflects a man torn between duty and moral compromise.

✈️ Pilot 🕵️ Espionage 💊 Drug Smuggler

Monty 'Schafer'

Monty Schafer is a CIA case officer who recruits Barry for covert operations. He embodies the enigmatic and often morally ambiguous nature of intelligence work, showing a willingness to manipulate situations for political gain. Schafer's character highlights the often shady underbelly of government operations during the Cold War.

🕵️ Espionage 📞 Manipulator 🎖️ CIA

Lucy Seal

Lucy Seal is Barry's supportive but increasingly troubled wife. As Barry's secretive life unfolds, Lucy faces the harsh realities of their choices, epitomizing the emotional toll on families involved in dangerous lifestyles. Her character experiences the turmoil and challenges of maintaining a family in the face of danger and deceit.

👩‍👧‍👦 Family ❤️ Supportive 😟 Troubled

Jorge Ochoa

Jorge Ochoa is a pivotal figure in the Medellin Cartel who approaches Barry with lucrative deals for drug transport. His character represents the dangerous allure of the drug trade and the creators of its expansive networks. Ochoa’s involvement with Barry highlights the complex relationship between politics and drug trafficking.

💊 Drug Lord 💼 Businessman 🌍 Cartel

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:54

Major Themes – American Made (2017)
Explore the central themes of American Made (2017), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚖️ Morality

The theme of morality is central to Barry Seal’s journey, as he transitions from a CIA asset to a drug smuggler. His decisions, initially made for patriotic reasons, lead him into a world of crime that challenges his ethics and endangers his life. The film explores the blurred lines between right and wrong in the face of temptation and corruption.

💔 Family Strain

The strain on Seal's family is a poignant theme throughout the movie. As Barry's lifestyle evolves into one of danger and criminality, his relationships with his wife Lucy and children suffer significantly. The film highlights the impact of his choices on his family's well-being and their struggle to adapt to the unfolding chaos.

💰 Greed

Greed drives much of the plot in 'American Made', as Barry Seal's initial motivations for wealth lead him deeper into illegal activities. The lure of money transforms his life, leading to extravagant living and reckless decisions that ultimately unravel. The film portrays how greed can corrupt and lead to tragic consequences.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:54

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