No one has brought up the fact that the director, Anton Corbjin, a Dutch national, was a professional photographer for a good thirty years. Because of this, the scenes have a particular quality. Many seem composed as if they were still image photographs. The composition of both actors and object also seem very precisely set up. This careful placement, the lighting and colors, the composition of the scenes is another thing that I find appealing in this movie.
shareI also noticed lots of still shots. I.e. camera on stationary tripod while actors move within the scene.
This goes against the modern tendency to keep the camera moving. Even a slow camera 'track' is preferred over a still shot. It feels more interesting. (Filming dialog is a notable exception. Those shots, especially over-the-shoulder shots, are harder to frame)
Whether one prefers stationary or motion is a subjective thing. But I agree this "still shot" characteristic gives The American a different feel. Especially compared to wide-release mainstream films.
Yeah, a lot of scenes felt like photographs. Minimal movement in many scenes, I liked it.
shareYes, I loved how beautifully it was filmed in the Abruzzo region. There is a stillness to each shot that helps build the suspense of this assassin plotting and hiding out in these timeless mountain villages.
~ fin ~