American Fiction

In nearly one month, the Oscar’s will be awarded to the crème dela crème of the films we all viewed, or in this case, didn’t get a chance to see in 2023.  Thank you bebejesus for streaming apps.  Unfortunately, some of the Best Picture nominations will be a challenge to review before the big show, but thankfully, this gem became available for purchase on VUDU.  I usually don’t buy before I’ve had a chance to see in a theater, but time is of the essence and the press and trailers have all been stellar.  I know, get to the point.  The point is that this film captures frustration on the level of Five Easy Pieces.  Jeffery Wright is Thelonious “Monk” Ellison, author, professor, son, brother and curmudgeon when he witnesses the success of writing about the black experience that panders to the white consumers’ stereotyping.  He’s having trouble at work, selling his latest book, his mother is in declining health, his sister is enlisting his help, there’s an unexpected death, and his recently out brother is bouncing back and forth in his life without contributing much more than added stress.  An ideal storm.  The ensuing solution to his troubles is satire in its highest form.  You want to hug him, slap him, nod your head in agreement, and shrug your shoulders in a wtaf is happening disbelief.  This is a really good film and deserves the accolades and nominations, all categories.  Rating:  a  Pulitzer