"American Animals" is a documentary film written and directed by Bart Layton. The film tells the story of a book theft that occurred at Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky in 2004. Spencer Reinhard, an art student fascinated by rare books, collaborates with his friend Warren Lipka, a rebellious athletic student, to plan the theft. They target a collection of rare books stored in one of the university library's book rooms, including copies of Darwin's "Origin of Species" and John James Audubon's "Birds of America." With the help of two additional friends, Eric Borsuk for logistics and Chas Allen as the driver, these four students carry out the theft in the library. They face risks and uncertainties as they attempt to steal the valuable books.
"We're not doing this 'cause we need the money, or we're trapped, or we're dumb. We're doing this because this is our chance to do something," is a quote highlighting the motivation of the perpetrators in the film "American Animals." This quote depicts how the perpetrators feel trapped in mundane and boring everyday life, seeing the theft as an opportunity to do something significant. They are driven by a desire to create excitement and gain recognition in their lives. Their obsession with easy success and madness for fame is the primary driving force behind their decision to commit such a criminal act. They feel unsatisfied with the routines and limitations of their lives, and the theft becomes an escape from their boredom and dissatisfaction. They feel that through theft, they can achieve something greater than what they can attain in their everyday lives. The ambition to achieve extraordinary accomplishments and change their own destiny drives them to take significant risks, even if it means breaking the law.
The impulsive decisions made by the perpetrators in the film "American Animals" lead to profound consequences that change their lives forever. Viewing the theft of rare books as a shortcut to success and recognition, without considering the risks and long-term impacts, they become trapped in a cycle of damaging criminal actions. Even though they initially felt confident in the plans they had prepared carefully, the reality did not always match their expectations. When their plan doesn't go as expected, everything turns chaotic and complicated, presenting unforeseen consequences. Ultimately, they must face the consequences of their actions before the law. The trial process reveals to them that the desire to achieve wealth through immoral means not only damages their lives personally but also determines their fate in prison.
The film "American Animals" vividly depicts the dangers of impulsive actions and decision-making without considering its long-term consequences. Through the story of the perpetrators involved in the theft of rare books, we are reminded of the importance of careful consideration before taking significant actions, both in personal and social life. In each scene, we see how hasty decisions without mature consideration can lead to significant disasters and unwanted life changes. Furthermore, the film also illustrates that pursuing an obsession with success and fame through the wrong path will not bring long-term happiness. The perpetrators in the film, although initially enchanted by dreams of wealth and recognition, ultimately have to face the dire consequences of their criminal actions. Thus, "American Animals" delivers a powerful message that every action has consequences, and it is important for us to take responsibility for the choices we make in our lives.
At the end of the film, during the interview scene, Spencer provides us with a profound insight into self-reflection through his dialogue: “I think you gotta know yourself, or at least try. I think most people never really do. And I think that’s the problem. I think that’s my problem.” With this statement, Spencer expresses an understanding that his mistakes are not solely about the concrete actions he took, but also stem from a lack of self-awareness and understanding of his motivations. This serves as a reminder of the significance of introspection and self-understanding in preventing the repetition of similar mistakes. Moreover, it underscores the idea that despite making significant mistakes in our lives, we still have the opportunity to learn and grow from such experiences. Spencer's words encapsulate a universal truth about the human condition, prompting viewers to contemplate their own journeys of self-discovery and personal growth.
