Amsterdam Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Three quirky friends accidentally foil a fascist coup while trying to clear their names after being framed for a murder they didn’t commit… mostly because Taylor Swift got pushed into traffic.

🍿 Amsterdam: Detailed Plot Synopsis

World War I Bonds

In 1918, Burt Berendsen, a doctor, and Harold Woodman, a lawyer, forge a deep friendship during World War I. Serving together in a segregated unit, they’re both wounded and cared for by Valerie Voze, a quirky and unconventional nurse. Their shared experiences create an unbreakable bond.

Bohemian Amsterdam

After the war, the trio finds solace and artistic freedom in Amsterdam. They live a bohemian lifestyle, embracing art, love, and each other’s unique eccentricities. This period is a defining moment for their friendship and shapes their outlook on life. Valerie creates art from shrapnel, and Burt receives a glass eye after an injury.

1933: A Murder Mystery Unfolds

Fifteen years later in New York City, Burt and Harold are drawn into a murder mystery. Elizabeth Meekins, the daughter of their former commanding officer, suspects foul play in her father’s death. Their investigation leads them to uncover a sinister plot with far-reaching implications, and they’re framed for murder.

Conspiracy and the Committee of Five

As Burt and Harold delve deeper, they encounter a secret organization known as the “Committee of the Five,” a cabal of wealthy industrialists plotting to overthrow President Franklin D. Roosevelt and install a fascist regime. They realize that the murder they’re investigating is tied to this larger conspiracy.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Burt Berendsen (Christian Bale): A quirky, war-injured doctor who gets entangled in a murder conspiracy with his friends.
• Valerie Voze (Margot Robbie): An eccentric artist and nurse who forms a deep bond with Burt and Harold during wartime.
• Harold Woodman (John David Washington): A loyal and principled lawyer and war veteran who is Burt’s close friend and confidant.
• General Gil Dillenbeck (Robert De Niro): A respected and decorated general who becomes a key figure in uncovering the political conspiracy.
• Tom Voze (Rami Malek): A wealthy textile heir and Valerie’s controlling brother who is involved in a fascist plot.
• Paul Canterbury (Mike Myers): A British MI6 spy who is a glass eye maker and benefactor to Burt and Harold.
• Henry Norcross (Michael Shannon): An American US Naval Intelligence spy who is a glass eye maker and benefactor to Burt and Harold.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Burt Berendsen: “Each one of us is given a tapestry, our own opera. This person and this person. Thinking about it… love is not enough. You got to fight to protect kindness.” – Burt reflects on the complexities of life, highlighting the need to actively defend compassion despite potential heartbreak.
• Burt Berendsen: “You get attached to people and things. And they might just break your heart… but that’s being alive.” – Burt shares his outlook on life and the inevitability of heartbreak.
• General Gil Dillenbeck: “This country is changing, and not for the better. We need to stand up and fight for what we believe in.” – General Dillenbeck speaks about fascism

💰Box Office

• Budget: $80,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $14,947,969
• Worldwide Gross: $31,245,810

💥 Amsterdam Reviews

Personal Review

I really wanted to love Amsterdam. The cast is incredible, and the setting is so visually rich. But honestly, the plot felt like it was trying to do too much at once, and I got lost in the details. The friendship between Burt, Harold, and Valerie was beautiful to watch, and I appreciated the message about protecting kindness. Overall, I’d recommend it for the performances and visuals, but be prepared to work to keep up with the story.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of David O. Russell’s previous films”
  • “Viewers interested in historical fiction and conspiracy thrillers”
  • “Those who appreciate ensemble casts and quirky characters”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Violence”
  • “Mature themes (fascism, political conspiracy)”
  • “Brief strong language”
  • “Some drug use”
  • “Suggestive content”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “Amsterdam boasts stunning visuals and a stellar cast, but it ultimately crumbles under the weight of its convoluted plot. The performances are strong, but the script fails to deliver a cohesive or engaging narrative.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “Despite its ambition and impressive ensemble, Amsterdam feels strangely lifeless. The film struggles to balance its comedic and dramatic elements, resulting in a tonally inconsistent and ultimately forgettable experience.
• RogerEbert.com: “While visually appealing and boasting talented actors, Amsterdam’s story is too messy and unfocused to truly resonate. The film attempts to juggle too many plot threads, leaving the audience feeling lost and disconnected.

Audience Reactions

Christian Bale’s performance was outstanding, bringing quirky charm and depth to his character.: Viewers praised the cast and the beautiful cinematography, but many found the plot confusing and the pacing uneven.

Margot Robbie’s performance was captivating, making her one of the best actresses.: Many loved the quirky nature, however many were confused with the multiple subplots.

Overall Consensus: Amsterdam is a visually stunning film with a stellar cast, but its convoluted plot and uneven pacing left many viewers confused and underwhelmed. While the performances are generally praised, the film ultimately fails to deliver a satisfying narrative experience.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film is loosely based on the real-life Business Plot, a political conspiracy in 1933 to overthrow President Franklin D. Roosevelt.”
• “Christian Bale reportedly stayed in character throughout the filming, often improvising lines and scenes.”
• “David O. Russell conducted extensive research into the historical context of the film, including the experiences of WWI veterans and the political climate of the 1930s.”

🖥️ How to Watch Amsterdam?

As of October 2024, ‘Amsterdam’ is available for streaming on platforms like Hulu and through various on-demand rental and purchase options via Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, and Vudu. Check your local listings for availability.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Amsterdam, you might like these similar films:

• American Hustle (2013): Also directed by David O. Russell, it features a similarly quirky and ensemble cast in a crime story inspired by real events.
• The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020): Focuses on a politically charged trial and historical events with a strong ensemble cast and explores themes of justice and conspiracy.
• LA Confidential (1997): A neo-noir crime film that delves into a complex conspiracy with multiple characters and plot twists set in a historical period.

🛒 Amsterdam Related Products

• Amsterdam Movie Poster: High-quality print of the official Amsterdam movie poster. Perfect for fans who appreciate the film’s art deco aesthetic and stunning visuals. A great way to showcase your love for the film.
• 1930s Vintage Style Fedora Hat: Channel Burt Berendsen’s classic 1930s style with this high-quality fedora. Made with premium materials, it’s perfect for costume parties, cosplay, or adding a touch of vintage flair to your everyday wardrobe. Step back in time and feel like you’re part of the Amsterdam crew.
• Art Deco Jewelry Set: Capture Valerie Voze’s bohemian spirit with an Art Deco-inspired jewelry set. Includes a necklace and earrings featuring geometric designs and vintage-inspired detailing. Perfect for fans who admire Valerie’s unique style and artistic flair. Bring a touch of Amsterdam’s artistry to your own look.
• Amsterdam: The Official Behind-the-Scenes Book: Dive deeper into the world of Amsterdam with this official behind-the-scenes book. Includes exclusive interviews with the cast and crew, concept art, and behind-the-scenes photos. Perfect for fans who want to learn more about the making of the film and gain deeper insights into its characters and themes.

🎧 Soundtrack

Amsterdam features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Precious Memories” – performed by Taylor Swift, Christian Bale, John David Washington
• “Amsterdam” – performed by Daniel Pemberton

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

A History of Abuse – David O. Russell is Finished

Curious about the reasons behind ‘Amsterdam’s’ mixed reviews? This video offers a thought-provoking analysis of the film’s strengths and weaknesses, giving you a fresh perspective on the movie.

Margot Robbie, Christian Bale and Rami Malek talk ‘Amsterdam’ l GMA

Want to hear the cast of ‘Amsterdam’ share their thoughts on the movie? This interview is a must-watch, as they discuss their experiences, characters, and the overall message of the film.

✨ Rate