“American Animals is the unbelievable but entirely true story of four young men who attempt one of the most audacious art heists in U.S. history. Determined to escape their predictable suburban lives, Spencer and Warren decide to do something extraordinary: steal some of the world’s most valuable books from a college library. Enlisting two other friends, Spencer and Warren meticulously plot the theft—but their caper takes on a wild life of its own in this thrilling film from writer-director Bart Layton (The Imposter).”

American Animals is unlike any film I’ve seen before. It flawlessly blends two very different styles, a documentary and drama, providing accounts from the real people involved as they tell the story using actors. One would think this unique style wouldn’t work considering film versions of real events are usually embellished somewhat in order to provide a more entertaining story. Well, for these guys and what they planned, it’s all the grandeur we need, and the styles makes for some very funny moments as the film version changes as the conflicting memories of the guys change as well.

The film does more than just tell the story about this so-called heist and the events that led up to it. Taking place in Lexington, Kentucky, I admit that I was a bit more fascinated by this film because I actually know someone who went to school with these people and grew up on the same street. Regardless of that fact, the film serves to entertain with a wild tale of would-be master thieves who really see this as a pipe dream, having more fun planning it and acting like it would never come to fruition. For their research in how to become a thief, they watch Heist films, thinking this would prepare them for every conceivable situation that may arise in the middle of the robbery. Most of all, the film is about regret, with each of them expressing it in different ways toward the end of the film and how their actions affected the lives of their families, the librarian, and most of all their own lives.

Touting itself as a True-Crime thriller, it has a targeted audience that no doubt will find enjoyment. Its unique style will appeal to both documentary fans and ones of structured films. There really isn’t anything I didn’t enjoy about it, it was such a refreshing take on style that everything about it was fascinating. Even though the outcome was national news and common knowledge, especially around this area, the film still manages to provide a highly entertaining ride from start to finish. It’s incredibly moving and heartfelt, hilarious in its execution despite the outcome. All around, American Animals is a film you won’t soon forget.

Video

American Animals is presented in 1080p High Definition Widescreen 2.35:1.The transfer looks great, with no defects noticed. There are some interesting moments where the film either utilizes black and white or different filters to give the film a certain tone. The film provides a great balance in color, with a very clear picture.

Audio

The audio is presented in DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. The film is mostly dialogue, so the majority of sound will be coming from the center channel. Levels of the other speakers are well balanced, providing mostly atmospheric and background effects. The soundtrack to the film sounds great as well, with some great selections that add to the tone of the story.

Special Features

There are some great extras on this disc, and with such a fascinating story that includes the actual people involved, naturally there will be tons of questions at the end. I highly recommend checking these out to try and satisfy that crave for additional knowledge that kept going after the credits rolled.

• Deleted Scenes
• Featurettes
• Still Gallery
• Director and Cast Commentary

American Animals takes an outrageous true story and creates something so amazing. You feel the stress, the excitement, and most of all, the pain of these guys as they relive the biggest mistake of their lives. A truly unique film, American Animals is highly recommended checking out.