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AIRCRAFT pilot Barry Seal (Tom Cruise) is recruited by the CIA to run one of the biggest covert operations in US history. As a result, he gets many opportunities to become rich. One thing leads to another and Barry eventually becomes a smuggler and dealer of drugs and weapons, as well as a money launderer.

Honestly, I was getting fed up seeing Tom Cruise in another action film playing a tooserious character, such as in I was, therefore, reluctant to watch

I mean, the synopsis does sound like it’s another heavy movie, potentially involving lots of fighting and killing. But, surprisingly, it turned out to be a lightweight, despite dealing with a criminal subject.

The drug trafficking element dominates throughout the film but the humour surrounding the storyline works. And thankfully, it’s not the slapstick kind.

After being hired by the CIA, Barry goes through his life rather carelessly but his outrageous actions and their unexpected outcomes provide the laughs. “I do tend to leap before I look,” he says. Still, the turn of events are so inconceivable to the point that you won’t believe that is actually based on a true story! Despite the humour, there is still a dark and dramatic element that comes with the crimes Barry is involved in. There are moments when you feel worried for him, but it disappears soon enough.

I love that this is a unique take on a crime film. And okay, maybe this isn’t Cruise’s first time attempting comedy but it’s undeniably a refreshing change of scenery. Cruise portrays Barry as this happy-go-lucky guy with a megawatt smile and aviator sunglasses. Treading on dangerous waters, he knows what he’s getting himself into.

The opening scene is rather slowpaced, though. Things only heat up later when the Medellin Cartel (Does the name Pablo Escobar sound familiar?) enters the picture.

Meanwhile, the other cast members do a commendable job, but Cruise is the star.

I also like how the whole film has a yellow hue, which perfectly sets the tone for the 1970s/ ‘80s era in which the events took place. Go watch if you’re a Cruise fan, or if you’re curious about the crazy life of an American drug smugglerturned-federal informant.