Watch American Heart
- R
- 1993
- 1 hr 53 min
-
6.7 (3,614)
American Heart is a dramatic movie released in 1992 that touches on issues of family, redemption and second chances. It stars Jeff Bridges, Edward Furlong and John Boylan, and is directed and co-written by Martin Bell. The movie follows Jack (Bridges), an ex-con who has just been released from prison after serving his sentence for armed robbery. Jack is trying to reconnect with his son, Nick (Furlong), whom he left to fend for himself when he was arrested. Jack's motives are not completely pure as he is also using his son to help him get back in the game of criminal activity.
However, despite Nick's initial reluctance and anger at Jack's sudden return, the two begin to bond as Jack tries to make amends for his past mistakes. Jack takes Nick under his wing and teaches him some of the skills of his trade, such as picking locks and hot-wiring cars. Despite Nick's reservations and doubts about his father, he slowly begins to see him in a different light.
Nick, meanwhile, is struggling with his own demons. He is trying to come to terms with the fact that he has inherited a heart condition that killed his mother at a young age. He feels as though he is living on borrowed time, and this has led him to make some questionable decisions, such as dropping out of school and stealing cars.
As Jack and Nick's relationship deepens, Jack begins to see the error of his ways and tries to steer Nick away from a life of crime. However, this does not sit well with the other members of Jack's former gang, who see Nick as a liability and a potential snitch.
The movie takes place in the gritty streets of Seattle, where Jack and Nick are constantly trying to navigate the dangerous world of gangs, drugs and violence. The city itself is a character in the movie, with its looming skyscrapers and dingy back alleys serving as the backdrop for much of the action.
The performances in the movie are strong, with Jeff Bridges delivering a powerful portrayal of a man who is trying to make amends for his past mistakes. He captures the rough-edged charm of his character, while also showing a vulnerability that is rare in his more iconic roles.
Edward Furlong, in his breakout role, gives a great performance as Nick. He captures the teenage angst and confusion of his character, while also showing a willingness to learn and change.
John Boylan, who plays the sleazy criminal Deacon, is also excellent in his role. He brings a sense of sliminess and danger to the character that makes him a formidable opponent for Jack and Nick.
The movie is not without its flaws. At times, it can feel a little heavy-handed in its message of redemption and second chances. The pacing is also a bit uneven, with some scenes dragging on too long while others seem rushed.
Overall, American Heart is a powerful and emotionally charged movie that tackles some weighty themes. Jeff Bridges and Edward Furlong both give excellent performances, and the movie is well worth watching for their work alone. While it might not be the most polished or finely crafted movie of its time, it is definitely one that sticks with you long after the credits roll.
American Heart is a 1993 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 53 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7.