Reviewers are generally divided on the film, often praising the lead performance while criticizing the script and structure:

'American Murderer' Hulu Movie Review: Stream It or Skip It?

The story follows Jason Derek Brown (Tom Pelphrey), a man who funds a lavish, high-rolling lifestyle through a series of elaborate scams. As his funds dwindle and creditors close in, his desperation leads him to a cold-blooded murder during an armored car robbery. The narrative is non-linear, using a fractured timeline to explore Brown's past through the investigation of FBI Special Agent Lance Leising (Ryan Phillippe), who interviews those left in Brown's wake.