Over the weekend, I went to see "American Assassin." Starring Dylan O' Brien ("Teen Wolf," "The Maze Runner") and Michael Keaton ("Birdman," "Beetlejuice") this film is a must-see. Michael Keaton always has the crazy roles, but this was a huge difference for O' Brien. I was actually a little hesitant when he was cast, but I was happily proved wrong. I did not read the novels before watching this so I was extremely surprised.

After a sudden terrorist attack on a beach, where Mitch Rapp (O' Brien) is vacationing, he understandably loses his mind. 18 months later, Rapp goes through the most rigorous training to get revenge on all the assassins.

He eventually catches the eye of the CIA because of his obvious talent. Despite his training, he is not given the role easily. After being face to face with his enemies, Mitch is thrown into the home of ex-war hero Stan Hurley (Keaton) along with other cadets to learn more about defeating assassins.

Irene Kennedy (Sanaa Lathan) and Annika (Shiva Negar) are both badass women throughout the film. Irene is the head of the CIA and Annika is Stan's sidekick. However, I would have loved to see women in the selection of cadets. The relationship between Irene and Stan also didn't seem authentic.

The film really takes a huge turn when one of Stan's former students tries to outsmart them. Ghost (Taylor Kitsch) starts committing crimes all around Europe which tests the cadets to the best of their abilities. Some don't make it out alive.

You are warned, this has some of the most devastating scenes. I was on the edge of my seat throughout most of it. Even with O'Brien and Keaton's back and forth witty banter, you will find yourself wiping your tears throughout the film.

Overall, director Michael Cuesta (Homeland, Dexter) accurately shows the gory reality of how unpredictable life can be. The theme is when life gets you down, you shouldn't just lie down and take it. I for one, am looking forward to a sequel.