Watch The American Soldier

The American Soldier is a German crime drama film that debuted in 1970. The movie was directed and produced by the acclaimed director of the New German Cinema, Rainer Werner Fassbinder. The movie stars Karl Scheydt as Ricky, a young American soldier who is on a mission to carry out an assassination on behalf of his superiors. The American Soldier is a gritty and intense movie that explores the themes of loyalty, betrayal, and corruption. The film opens with the character of Ricky walking through the city streets in a cold and emotionless manner. His steely gaze conveys that he is a man on a mission who is not to be trifled with. As the story progresses, we learn that Ricky is a highly trained hitman who has been hired by a criminal organization to eliminate their rivals.

The movie is shot in black and white, which adds to the feeling of bleakness and isolation that Ricky experiences. Fassbinder's use of long takes and static camera shots creates a feeling of tension and unease throughout the movie.

As Ricky goes about his mission, he encounters several different characters. One of the most prominent characters in the film is Rosa, played by Elga Sorbas. Rosa is a young prostitute who becomes infatuated with Ricky. Despite their initial attraction to each other, Ricky remains distant and unemotional towards Rosa.

Another character that Ricky meets is Franz Walsch, played by Jan George. Franz is an old friend of Ricky's who is now involved in a criminal organization. Franz tries to convince Ricky to join his organization, but Ricky remains loyal to his own superiors.

Throughout the movie, Fassbinder explores the themes of loyalty and betrayal. Ricky is a man who has dedicated his life to serving his country, but he finds himself caught in a web of corruption and deceit. As Ricky goes deeper into his mission, he begins to question his own loyalties and whether he can trust anyone.

The American Soldier is a slow-burn movie that takes its time to develop its characters and plot. The movie is not for everyone, as it is intense and at times, difficult to watch. However, for fans of crime movies and the New German Cinema, The American Soldier is a must-see.

The movie is also notable for its use of avant-garde filmmaking techniques. Fassbinder used a variety of camera angles and lighting techniques to create an otherworldly atmosphere. The result is a movie that is both visually stunning and intellectually stimulating.

Overall, The American Soldier is a classic crime drama that explores themes that are still relevant today. The film is a testament to the talent of Rainer Werner Fassbinder and his contribution to the German film industry. If you are a fan of crime movies or the New German Cinema, The American Soldier is not to be missed.