American Fiction (2023)

(Warning, this review contains spoilers.)

(And swearing.)

Fuck.

I think I prefer the ending that panders to stereotypes.

Wait. This movie has multiple endings? Not only does it have multiple endings, it also has multiple storylines.

"American Fiction" is a heartwarming tale about an entirely loveable and deeply dysfunctional family.

"American Fiction" is also a deeply biting satire which accuses the literary culture of pandering to stereotypes. Specifically, African American stereotypes.

It does this by telling the story of a literature professor known as Monk, who is deeply disillusioned by the state of black literature. Out of frustration, Monk writes a parody of all the Black community stereotypes around drugs, poverty, and violence.

Except the parody is accepted not as a parody, but at its face value. Worse, everyone loves it so much, they want to make a movie about the book. Monk hates the book's success. Monk tries to sabotage the book by insisting it simply be called "Fuck." Ultimately, Monk accepts the book's success.

The movie wraps up the family storyline with a suitably dysfunctional ending.

The movie then wraps up the satirical storyline with the literary professor talking about how the movie of his book should end. He suggests a number of endings, none satisfy the director, until he picks a violent ending which ironically panders to the worst of African American stereotypes. He not only accepted his book's success, he became the type of author he used to despise.

I definitely prefer the more violent ending. But I am not sure that is because of black stereotypes. But then I wouldn't think that. I am not black.



You should not watch American Fiction if...

• You are averse to movies with multiple storylines and endings.
• You dislike movies that deal with sensitive racial issues.
• You are offended by explicit language or strong themes.
• You dislike satirical or dark humor in movies.
• You prefer light-hearted and simple family storylines.
• You like endings that are clear cut and don't require much interpretation.

People who loved this movie also loved...
Do the Right Thing (1989):

If you loved "American Fiction" for its examination of racial stereotypes, then "Do the Right Thing" would be a perfect fit for you. Directed by Spike Lee, this film is a powerful portrayal of racial tension in a Brooklyn neighborhood. It's a vivid mix of humor, drama, and social criticism, similar to how "American Fiction" handles its themes. The plot culminates in a controversial ending which might cater to your preference for dramatic resolutions.

Sorry to Bother You (2018):

For an alternate reality satire dealing with societal norms and race, "Sorry to Bother You" is a strong recommendation. Directed by Boots Riley, it tells the story of Cassius Green, a telemarketer who discovers a magical key to success. This puts him on a collision course with the system's injustices. Its elements of satire and commentary on stereotypes are akin to those in "American Fiction".

Dear White People (2014):

If you appreciated the biting social critique of "American Fiction", you might enjoy "Dear White People". This film, directed by Justin Simien, addresses the often-ignored issue of racial identity in the current American landscape. The narrative is driven by the experiences of African-American students at an Ivy League college where racial tensions are thinly veiled in the background.

Get Out (2017):

With "American Fiction"'s focus on unsettling stereotypes and perception, you might want to check out "Get Out". This horror thriller film directed by Jordan Peele cleverly uses the genre to critique modern racism. It tells a gripping story of a young African-American man who visits his white girlfriend's parents for the weekend, leading to chilling discoveries.

Bamboozled (2000):

"Bamboozled" could be another great choice for you. Directed by Spike Lee, this film explores a similar theme as "American Fiction" — the manipulation and commodification of African-American culture. It follows the narrative of a TV network writer who, out of desperation, develops a blackface minstrel show, only to have it take off with unexpected success.

Like this? Then click here to see more comedy movies