David O Russell has done a brilliant job in capturing the human tendency of indulging in greed in his latest film “American Hustle”.  Irrelevant of the character’s social rank; they are all driven by one factor, greed. In this portrayal of the 70’s moral dissolve; Russell’s plot revolves around the Abscam affair—the bizarre criminal investigation of the nineteen-seventies in which the F.B.I. called on a swindler named Mel Weinberg to help ensnare public officials.

Christian Bale plays the character of Irving Rosenfeld; a composed charlatan who seems to have mastered the art of deceit accompanied by his paramour and partner in crime Sydney Prosser (Amy Adams) until the arm of the law catches up with him in the form of the federal agent, Richie DiMaso (Bradley Cooper). Here onwards the plot spirals out into DiMaso’s dream arrest, which slowly starts slipping out of his hands as the involvement of senators and congressmen makes it a scandal of epic proportions.

The casting for this film is impeccable as Bradley Cooper plays the part of a neurotic, under achieving, greedy, middle class Italian cop to the mark. Christian Bale’s dedication is seen once again as the actor gained 40 pounds for this role. Jennifer Lawrence plays the part of Irving’s jealous and manipulative wife Rosalyn who time and again manages to wreck her husband’s plans. She has given a convincing performance as the character seems absolutely self-assured of herself, no matter how hedonistic and dense she may come across to he world.

The cinematographer Linus Sandgren has done an exceptional job at capturing the mood of the scenes by ensuring a remarkable quality through every shot that tastefully recreates the seventies era, which is enhanced further by the apt sense of styling. A particular scene of a nightclub sends you straight back to the disco era.

The up tempo music by Danny Elfman reinforces the motive of the protagonists in their attempt to gain more success.

Despite a predictable end the twists and turns of the plot keep the film interesting till the end.