Timely satirical societal commentaries are rare these days, but Cord Jefferson guides a carefully crafted one in 'American Fiction.'
The premise - that an intellectual author who detests how "white guilt" has created a market for stories of African Americans that feed into stereotypical perceptions - is one that is pretty ballsy in this day and age. Jeffrey Wright brings his A-game as the curmudgeonly professor Thelonius "Monk" Ellison, who finds himself having to step into the role of family caretaker while simultaneously going to great lengths to prove a point and navigating a new relationship.
There's a lot packed into 'Fiction,' but it's done in a way that respectfully pokes fun at an accentuated reality. While this is a constant thread throughout the film, it is mostly a family dramedy, and there is no shortage of drama. Sterling K. Brown Tracee Ellis Ross, Leslie Uggams and Issa Rae all deliver in their own way in their supporting performances, but Wright clearly carries the film.
It's pretty easy to see why 'Fiction' was rewarded with an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, and the filming style mirrors the sarcasm and imagined eyeroll emojis that are implied throughout.
This film may be underrated, but its wittiness and ability to make audiences think should be appreciated by those who give it a chance.
The premise - that an intellectual author who detests how "white guilt" has created a market for stories of African Americans that feed into stereotypical perceptions - is one that is pretty ballsy in this day and age. Jeffrey Wright brings his A-game as the curmudgeonly professor Thelonius "Monk" Ellison, who finds himself having to step into the role of family caretaker while simultaneously going to great lengths to prove a point and navigating a new relationship.
There's a lot packed into 'Fiction,' but it's done in a way that respectfully pokes fun at an accentuated reality. While this is a constant thread throughout the film, it is mostly a family dramedy, and there is no shortage of drama. Sterling K. Brown Tracee Ellis Ross, Leslie Uggams and Issa Rae all deliver in their own way in their supporting performances, but Wright clearly carries the film.
It's pretty easy to see why 'Fiction' was rewarded with an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, and the filming style mirrors the sarcasm and imagined eyeroll emojis that are implied throughout.
This film may be underrated, but its wittiness and ability to make audiences think should be appreciated by those who give it a chance.
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