American Star will take you on a roller coaster of emotions. The film focuses on seasoned assassin Wilson (Ian McShane) as he sets on his final venture to the island of Fuerteventura to kill a man – one that he has never met. Due to unforeseen circumstances, Wilson’s plans change and he ends up staying on the island for longer than anticipated. The setback of his target being delayed turns into somewhat of a vacation which is something new for Wilson. As he waits for his target to show up, Wilson takes in the sights and scenes of the island. The people, the culture, and the tropical island itself enthralls Wilson. When his target finally returns, Wilson is there waiting for him in his house.
There are three main reasons why you should take the time to watch this film. First and foremost, Ian McShane is brilliant. It fascinates me that even with very little dialogue in the film, McShane can still portray every ounce of experience, conflict, pain, and emotion just through his facial expressions. Then, when he does speak, he is able to interact with each character differently. Even though we know that Wilson has likely done inhumane things, you find yourself connecting with him as he does with the characters in the film.
The film pairs McShane with co-star Nora Arnezeder who plays his love interest Gloria. Unplanned, the two meet at a bar on the island. Wilson is much older than Gloria and you would not think that the two would have much in common. Contrary to my belief, Wilson and Gloria have a unique chemistry. A chemistry that led Gloria to introducing Wilson to her mother. The side love story in the film makes it endearing even though the ending is a thrilling shock.
Another reason you should watch American Star is that even with Wilson’s line of work and the crimes he has committed, the film is relatable. Wilson steps out of his comfort zone to do something and be somewhere completely different than his normal life. Through this, he develops new relationships and begins to find himself in a new light. In a sense, this is inspiring and a reminder that it can be a positive thing to step out of your norm and live your life the way you want to.
The island – a place where most go to get off the grid — is the place where Wilson may realize his potential and what he could do with his life after a long line of murderous work in the film American Star.
By Bridget Linton
