Title: American Fiction
Year: 2023
Director: Cord Jefferson
Country: US
Language: English
I was surprised when I heard that American Fiction (2023) had won the People's Choice Award at Toronto International Film Festival. I was considering going to the festival & I didn't think the film stood out to me when it was announced. After viewing it for the first time, I must admit that I am impressed.
A novelist (Jeffrey Wright) who's fed up with the establishment profiting from Black entertainment uses a pen name to write a book that propels him into the heart of the hypocrisy and madness he claims to disdain.
American Fiction is a smart satire that dissects racial stereotypes while taking storytelling risks. It mocks the system around Black art and dives into the shady ways its advertised, consumed and created. It asks if we actually want authentic black stories or if we want to keep seeing media like Boyz in the Hood.
The picture is also an excellent family drama. This part helps mold our main character & give us a more well rounded artist who we can empathize with. Jeffery Wright, as well as the other actors involved, help give life to a charming, witty and fun script.
American Fiction made me laugh plenty of times. It is incredibly effective as a comedy, and the heartfelt moments also hit hard. It's a worthwhile viewing that deserves the Oscar buzz that it's getting.
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