Besides the one or two moments when my impatient self wished for a slightly quicker pace, I have no real complaints about American Fiction.

Writer/director Cord Jefferson’s latest comedy/drama stars Jeffrey Wright, John Ortiz, Issa Rae and Sterling K. Brown. It is a story about a black American author who finally finds success but at a cost he didn’t quite foresee. Jefferson’s film truly delivers on its trailer’s promise; for it is funny, very smartly written, and well-acted. It also features one of the most super clear and cleverly constructed analogies I’ve ever heard; one that just happens to feature the Scotch Whisky brand Johnnie Walker.

American Fiction is ultimately a movie about race and how the topic shows up in the literary world. I’m not sure that this subject has been explored quite as thoroughly, hilariously and cleverly as it is in Jefferson’s movie. And since it’s a subject that affects many writers of colour (Jefferson included), it’s no wonder that he has referred to the film as “the greatest honour of my entire life, truly.” 

In addition to the aforementioned brilliant analogy, another key highlight is a wonderful scene where Wright and Rae’s characters have a highly engaging back-and-forth that I could have watched forever. 

If it wasn’t already super clear, I had a great time watching American Fiction, as did the two guests who joined me at a London screening in November. As such, when you’re in the mood for something good, and funny, watch American Fiction. Especially since as per the words of Jefferson himself: 

“I don’t intend this movie to be didactic. I didn’t intend it to teach any moral lessons or, scold anybody for anything. I wanted to make a movie for adults that allows you to think for yourself and allows you to have a good time.” _Cord Jefferson

American Fiction Release Dates: December 15th, 2023 (US); February 2nd, 2024 (UK)…

Happy Film Loving 

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