Released in September 2023, “American Fiction” is a film that has sparked conversation and debate. Directed by Cord Jefferson and starring Jeffrey Wright, the film tells the story of a black novelist named Thelonious ‘Monk’ Ellison, who becomes disillusioned with the publishing industry’s expectations for black writers.

Central to the film’s plot is Monk’s decision to write a fictional novel under a pen name. The novel, filled with stereotypical portrayals of black characters and experiences, becomes a surprising success, forcing Monk to confront his own complicity in perpetuating harmful narratives.

American Fiction is a complex film that tackles nuanced themes. It raises important questions about race, representation, and the power dynamics within the creative industries. The film’s satirical approach can be both humorous and uncomfortable, prompting viewers to reflect on their own biases and assumptions.

Some of the film’s key strengths include the powerful performances. Jeffrey Wright who stars in the film delivers a compelling performance. He does an excellent job at capturing the character’s frustration, desperation and eventually self-reckoning. Additionally, the film captures the viewer’s attention with the thought-provoking themes of race in popular culture and the challenges faced by marginalized creators, as well as the engaging narrative.

The film’s trailer is not very telling of the depths of the plot. It makes it seem as though the film holds fewer layers and only touches on the humor. However, the film has much more to it and tells both a truly heartwarming story of family connections and a satirical education on race in this country. 

Overall, American Fiction is a thought-provoking film that is sure to spark conversation. The film is nominated for five Oscars, including Best Picture. The film is a valuable contribution to the ongoing discussion about race and representation in American society.