The Mule (2018 film)

The Mule is a 2018 American crime drama film produced and directed by Clint Eastwood, who also stars in the lead role. The screenplay, written by Nick Schenk, is based on the New York Times Magazine article "The Sinaloa Cartel's 90-Year-Old Drug Mule" by Sam Dolnick, which recounts the real-life story of Leo Sharp, a World War II veteran who became a drug courier for the Sinaloa Cartel in his 80s.

The film follows Earl Stone (played by Eastwood), a financially struggling horticulturist and Korean War veteran who becomes a drug mule for a Mexican drug cartel to avoid foreclosure on his business. He quickly earns a reputation as a reliable "mule," transporting large quantities of cocaine across state lines. As Earl becomes more involved with the cartel, he attracts the attention of a DEA agent, Colin Bates (played by Bradley Cooper), who begins tracking his movements.

The film explores themes of regret, family, aging, and the consequences of choices. Earl's success as a drug mule comes at the cost of his relationships with his estranged daughter and ex-wife, and he is forced to confront the damage he has caused to those around him.

The Mule also stars Laurence Fishburne, Michael Peña, Dianne Wiest, and Andy Garcia. It was released in the United States on December 14, 2018, by Warner Bros. Pictures. The film received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for Eastwood's performance and direction, but criticism for its screenplay and pacing. It was a box office success, grossing over $174 million worldwide.