Movie Pamphlet: "The American Friend" Directed by Wim Wenders Wim Wenders' seventh feature film, made when he was 31 years old. Jonathan, a Hamburg picture framer, lives with the fear of death from leukemia. Tom Ripley, who frames him for murder, gets caught up in a dangerous friendship while carrying out the perfect crime. Pogash, who was supposed to be dead, is forging paintings by a painter. The story unfolds at a brisk pace, starting with a suspenseful auction scene, and follows the intertwined story of these three characters. A great work by Wenders, which portrays the madness and anxiety of modern times. And Hopper's amazing performance is a highlight. The original work is by Patricia Highsmith.