When the trailer for American Made was first released, one of the comments under it was something along the lines of ‘nice to see Tom Cruise acting again’. Essentially, this is a film where Tom Cruise is back as character actor leading man, as opposed to just action hero (which he is also brilliant at, of course). Cruise really shines here, giving a great performance in an energetic joy ride through a part of history.

Based on real events, the film follows Barry Seal (Cruise), a pilot who is recruited by the CIA to perform reconnaissance flights over Central America to photograph the increasing communist threat. Soon Seal finds himself part of a secret operation to bring weapons to these countries and train the Contras. He flips this to his advantage, plunging deeper into ever more legally and morally ambiguous territory which seems to unravel at many points, but doesn’t always have the consequences you may expect.

Doug Liman, reuniting with Cruise, takes this premise and weaves it into an entertaining, high-energy tale that you won’t believe is (mostly) real. The film flies seamlessly between the varying jobs and events that occur in Seal’s life, keeping up a fun pace, without dropping into any lulls or losing momentum. It is slightly familiar storytelling, but is used to make a film that could have otherwise been a trudge or uneven mess, an entertaining ride. Despite the seriousness of some of the subject matter, by telling the story through Seal’s perspective, it primarily maintains a light comedic tone, but does remain grounded. The issue with the fast pace means that everything is only touched upon lightly; the film perhaps lacks a little more weighing down in parts.

Cruise carries the film incredibly (as we are so used to seeing him so), he gives off a palpable energy and imbues the character of Seal with so much life and zest, he brings the tale to life. You almost forget you are watching Tom Cruise. He is supported well by the likes of Domnhall Gleeson and Sarah Wright, but this is Cruise’s show, and it serves to remind us of the movie star that he is.

The almost documentary-style cinematography from César Charlone adds not only to the feeling of watching something real, but to the kinetic feel of the whole affair.

American Made provides a wild ride and a showcase for Cruise, and whilst when it is over it may feel a little light, despite all the events it has packed in, it is certainly good entertainment.