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Aviator Adventure: Barry Seal’s Outfit in American Made

In the world of cinema, certain characters become unforgettable not only for their dialogue and actions but also for the unique style they embody. One such character is Barry Seal, brought to life by the charismatic Tom Cruise in the movie “American Made.” This riveting true-life story of a pilot turned drug smuggler turned DEA informant captivates audiences, and it’s impossible to overlook the sartorial choices that contributed to Barry Seal’s indelible persona. Let’s take a closer look at the distinctive outfits that defined Tom Cruise’s portrayal of Barry Seal in “American Made.”

Barry Seal’s American Optical Aviator Glasses: Timeless Cool

The American Optical aviator glasses worn by Barry Seal (Tom Cruise) in the movie American Made
The American Optical aviator glasses worn by Barry Seal (Tom Cruise) in the movie American Made

No discussion of Tom Cruise’s style in “American Made” would be complete without acknowledging the iconic American Optical aviator glasses. These sunglasses, synonymous with aviator fashion, became an integral part of Cruise’s character portrayal. As Barry Seal, Cruise dons these shades, enhancing his cool factor and exuding an air of intrigue. The aviator glasses perfectly capture the essence of the era and add a touch of retro sophistication to Cruise’s ensemble.

Aviator Glasses in the ’80s and Their Enduring Appeal

Aviator glasses have become synonymous with larger-than-life characters in the world of cinema. We’ve previously explored this iconic eyewear choice in the context of the 1980s in “Narcos,” where these shades often graced the faces of characters deeply enmeshed in a world of intrigue and danger. The enduring appeal of aviator glasses is a common thread connecting “American Made” and “Narcos.” In both narratives, this distinctive style plays a pivotal role in shaping each character’s identity, adding depth to their on-screen personas.

Divergent Narratives: “Narcos” and “American Made”

The series ‘Narcos’ and the movie ‘American Made” share a common thread as they both delve into the complex world of drug trafficking in the 1980s with a particular focus on the activities of the Medellín Cartel. However, they approach this topic from distinct viewpoints: ‘Narcos’ primarily explores the realm of Pablo Escobar and his empire, while ‘American Made’ offers a unique perspective through the experiences of Barry Seal, who was involved in these activities in a different capacity.

An intriguing aspect of Tom Cruise’s portrayal in “American Made” is that this isn’t the first time we’ve seen him embrace the aviator persona, and his association with aviator glasses is undoubtedly familiar. In a previous article, we delved into Cruise’s iconic aviator style when he transformed into Pete “Maverick” Mitchell from “Top Gun.”

Barry Seal’s Watch: A Subtle Yet Striking Accessory

The watch worn by Barry Seal (Tom Cruise) in the movie American Made
Navajo American Indian 925 Silver Heart Turquoise Watch, worn by Barry Seal (Tom Cruise) in the movie American Made
The turquoise silver mans watch worn by Barry Seal (Tom Cruise) in the movie American Made

Barry Seal’s distinctive style in “American Made” also includes a striking Native American Turquoise Coral Men’s Watch. Crafted by Navajo Artists in the USA, this timepiece features two free-form turquoise stones on each tip, accompanied by two leaves on each tip, adorned with two turquoise stones and silver drops and swirls. With genuine Kingman nuggets and Mediterranean Coral, set on Sterling, and intricate details like leaves, swirls, twist wire, and carved borders, this watch adds a unique and stylish element to Barry Seal’s iconic look.

The Nemesis watch worn by Barry Seal (Tom Cruise) in the movie American Made
The Nemesis watch worn by Barry Seal (Tom Cruise) in the movie American Made

In “American Made,” Cruise’s character, Barry Seal, is often seen wearing also the Nemesis watch. This timepiece complements Seal’s adventurous persona with its rugged yet stylish design. The watch’s oversized face and leather strap exude a sense of masculinity and reliability, reflecting the character’s resourcefulness and determination. Cruise effortlessly incorporates the watch into his character’s style, showcasing a seamless blend of functionality and fashion.

The Brown Barry Seal Leather Jacket: A Symbol of Adventure

Barry-Seal-American-Made-Tom-Cruise-Leather-Jacket
Barry Seal’s outfit: Brown Leather Jacket worn by Barry Seal (Tom Cruise) as seen in American Made

A standout piece in Cruise’s wardrobe in “American Made” is the vintage leather jacket worn by his character, Barry Seal. This classic outerwear piece exudes ruggedness and a sense of adventure, perfectly aligning with Seal’s daring lifestyle as a pilot. The jacket’s worn and distressed appearance adds an authentic touch, further reinforcing the character’s rebellious spirit. Tom Cruise effortlessly carries the jacket, showcasing his timeless appeal and infusing a hint of vintage charm into his overall style.

In Conclusion: Tom Cruise’s Distinctive Style in American Made

Tom Cruise’s fashion style in “American Made” plays a significant role in shaping the character of Barry Seal. Barry Seal’s style isn’t merely about fashion; it’s a reflection of his adventures, character development, and the chaotic world he navigates. It’s a timeless style that transcends trends, making “American Made” an even more memorable cinematic experience.

MOVIE:American Made
DIRECTED BY: Doug Liman