“American Fiction” is a 2023 dark comedy-drama film marking Cord Jefferson’s debut as a feature director. Adapted from Percival Everett’s 2001 novel “Erasure,” the story revolves around a disillusioned novelist-professor who pens a satirical take on stereotypical “Black” literature, only to have it mistakenly lauded as serious art, leading to both commercial success and critical acclaim. Starring Jeffrey Wright, Tracee Ellis Ross, Issa Rae, Sterling K. Brown, and others, the film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, where it earned the People’s Choice Award. Distributed by Amazon MGM Studios, it received a limited theatrical release in December 2023, garnering $23 million in revenue and earning praise from the American Film Institute, as well as receiving multiple nominations at the 96th Academy Awards, with Jefferson clinching the Best Adapted Screenplay accolade.
CHARACTERS
- Jeffrey Wright portrays Dr. Thelonious “Monk” Ellison.
- Tracee Ellis Ross plays Dr. Lisa Ellison.
- Issa Rae takes on the role of Sintara Golden.
- Sterling K. Brown appears as Dr. Clifford “Cliff” Ellison.
- John Ortiz is cast as Arthur.
- Erika Alexander portrays Coraline.
- Leslie Uggams depicts Agnes Ellison.
- Adam Brody portrays Wiley Valdespino.
- Keith David is seen as Willy the Wonker.
- Okieriete Onaodowan embodies Van Go Jenkins.
- Myra Lucretia Taylor is featured as Lorraine.
- Raymond Anthony Thomas is cast as Maynard.
- Miriam Shor takes on the role of Paula Baderman.
- Michael Cyril Creighton portrays John Bosco.
- Patrick Fischler appears as Mandel.
- Neal Lerner is seen as Wilson Harnet.
- J. C. MacKenzie is cast as Carl Brunt.
- Jenn Harris depicts Aileen Hoover.
- Bates Wilder portrays Jon Daniel Sigmarsen.
- Ryan Richard Doyle appears as Ned.
- Skyler Wright is cast as Brittany.
STORYLINE
Thelonious “Monk” Ellison, an erudite African-American writer and professor residing in Los Angeles, faces challenges with his novels receiving critical acclaim but poor sales due to not conforming to perceived “Black” stereotypes. After facing backlash at his university for his confrontational approach to racial issues, he attends a literary seminar in his hometown of Boston and reconnects with his family. During this time, he grapples with the success of author Sintara Golden, whose work perpetuates racial stereotypes. In Boston, Monk reunites with his family, including his mother Agnes, who suffers from Alzheimer’s, and his sister Lisa, a doctor. Tragedy strikes when Lisa unexpectedly passes away, bringing Monk’s estranged brother Cliff, a troubled plastic surgeon, back into their lives. Monk also begins a relationship with Coraline, a lawyer living near his mother’s home.
Frustrated by the literary landscape and mounting costs of his mother’s care, Monk writes a satirical novel titled My Pafology, ridiculing the clichés expected from Black writers. To his surprise, the book receives a substantial advance and gains popularity under the pseudonym “Stagg R. Leigh”. As “Stagg”, Monk navigates a movie deal and controversy surrounding his persona. Amidst family struggles and professional success, Monk faces ethical dilemmas regarding his identity and the authenticity of his work. He clashes with Sintara Golden during a literary award judging panel, challenging her portrayal of African-American experiences.
As Monk grapples with personal and professional integrity, he confronts his past and reevaluates his relationships, including his complicated dynamic with Coraline. Ultimately, Monk’s journey culminates in a dramatic revelation at an awards ceremony, leading to unexpected twists in his career and personal life. Through introspection and reconciliation with his family, Monk navigates the complexities of identity, artistry, and societal expectations, ultimately finding a path forward that aligns with his values and aspirations.
