About American Night

American Night is a 2021 film that seamlessly blends crime, art, and the underworld. The story is set in New York City where an art dealer manipulates various characters to get ahold of a rare painting known as "The Hideaway" by Jean Michel Basquiat. Getting ahold of this painting becomes a life-or-death adventure, involving mafia killings, treachery, and deception. The film is a subtle commentary on the value of art in society.

Making / Production

The movie was directed by Alessio Della Valle with music by the composer Federico De Robertis. The film was shot in Vienna, Rome, New York, and Tunisia which provide the perfect backdrop for the evocative story.

Actors

• Jonathan Rhys Meyers stars as John Kaplan, an ambitious art dealer. His character is nuanced, and Meyers effortlessly brings out the desperation and cunning needed for his role.
• Emile Hirsch plays the role of Michael Rubino, the hapless artist caught in the crossfire. Hirsch portrays his character's innocence and turmoil with great sincerity.
• Paz Vega, as Sarah, delivers a layered performance as a woman entangled in the art world's dark side.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The rare painting in the story, "The Hideaway," is fictional but may be inspired by Jean Michel Basquiat's vibrant and edgy artwork.
• The movie was primarily shot during the night to bring a noir effect in the film.

Quotes

• John Kaplan: "Art, for some, is a matter of life and death."
• Michael Rubino: "The art world's no different than the mob."

Music, Soundtrack

• "Vortex" composed and performed by Federico De Robertis
• "Raging Storm" composed and performed by Federico De Robertis
• "The Art of Deception" composed and performed by Federico De Robertis