American Fiction Review

With the Oscars less than a week away, I finally caught one of this year’s Best Picture nominees: Cord Jefferson’s "American Fiction." The film follows author Thelonious Ellison (Jeffrey Wright) as he writes a satirical novel that is rife with African-American stereotypes in response to being frustrated by a fellow author doing the same, only to be met with critical acclaim. The movie, as satirical as the fictitious book, takes a fantastically tongue-in-cheek approach in its execution.

The stereotypes that Ellison capitalizes on (deadbeat fathers, gang violence, and characters who speak almost exclusively in Ebonics, to name a few) are met with open arms by the film’s (white) liberal publishing houses and Hollywood elite. The book My Pafology, later retitled Fuck, is often referred to as “an important story from an underrepresented voice that needs/deserves to be heard.” The result is a clever and frequently hilarious look in the mirror to (re)evaluate society’s reductionist understanding of the African-American experience.

Jeffrey Wright delivers a well-earned Oscar-nominated performance as Thelonious Ellison, capturing the character’s near-constant exasperation with the demand for his satirical book. As the film progresses, Ellison is caught leading a double life, switching between himself and the bestselling novel’s equally fictitious author, Stagg R. Leigh. Wright successfully portrays the character’s conflict as he sinks deeper into his lie while also allowing the audience to celebrate Ellison’s victories, such as finding love with neighbor Coraline (Erika Alexander) and arranging care for his ailing mother (Leslie Uggams).

However, the absolute scene-stealer lies with the Ellisons’ housekeeper Lorraine, warmly played by Myra Lucretia Taylor. Taylor’s portrayal of Lorraine adds depth to the movie, serving as its emotional heart. Through Lorraine, the audience is reminded of what true success looks like, contrasting with Ellison’s fabricated story. Taylor’s performance is so believable in its earnestness and sincerity that it prompts viewers to reconsider their definitions of success.

Cord Jefferson’s American Fiction is a sharp satire with commendable performances. Jeffrey Wright shines as the lead, while Myra Lucretia Taylor's supporting role keeps the film anchored in reality. The movie excels in its satire, performances, direction, and screenplay, making it a standout contender for Best Picture at the Oscars.

By Thad Boone