The American

Part thriller part character study part drama of deceit and self-betrayal The American (A Very Private Gentleman) shows Martin Booth at the very height of his powers. The basis for the 2010 action-packed film starring George Clooney!The locals in the southern Italian town where he lives call him Signor Farfalla--Mr. Butterfly: for he is a discreet gentleman who paints rare butterflies. His life is inconspicuous--mornings spent brushing at a canvas afternoons idling in the cafes and evening talks with his friend the town priest over a glass of brandy.Yet there are other sides to this gentleman''s life: Clara: the young student who moonlights in the town bordello. And another woman who arrives with $100000 and a commission but not for a painting of butterflies.With this assignment returns the dark fear that has dogged Signor Farfalla''s mysterious life. Almost instantly he senses a deadly circle closing in on him one which he may or may not elude.