American Fiction is a funny and thoughtful movie that came out in 2023. It’s about a Black writer and professor who gets frustrated and writes a really silly “Black” book as a joke. But surprise! The book gets published and becomes super famous. The movie stars Jeffrey Wright, Tracee Ellis Ross, Issa Rae, and Sterling K. Brown.
People first saw American Fiction at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 8, 2023, and they loved it so much that it won the People’s Choice Award. You can catch it in theaters from December 15, 2023, and it will be more widely available starting December 22, 2023. The American Film Institute even said it’s one of the top 10 movies of 2023.
Reviews
On Rotten Tomatoes, 93% of 60 critics liked American Fiction, giving it an average rating of 7.9/10. The website says that Jeffrey Wright’s great acting in the funny and smart movie will always be remembered.
Metacritic, which looks at reviews from different critics, gave the film a score of 80 out of 100. This score is based on 17 critics and means that the reviews are generally positive.
Cast Of American Fiction Movie
Jeffrey Wright as Thelonious “Monk” Ellison:
The central character, Monk is a celebrated novelist struggling with writer’s block and the pressures of success. He grapples with his identity as a Black man in America and the expectations placed upon him.
Tracee Ellis Ross as Lisa Ellison:
Monk’s wife, Lisa, acts as his anchor and support system. She is a successful lawyer with a strong personality and ambitions.
Issa Rae as Sintara Golden:
Sinatra is a rising star author whose success becomes a source of envy and competition for Monk. She is outspoken and challenging, pushing Monk to confront his limitations.
Sterling K. Brown as Clifford “Cliff” Ellison:
Monk’s brother, Cliff, is a down-to-earth musician who provides a contrasting perspective to Monk’s intellectual world. Their relationship explores themes of family, brotherhood, and differing paths in life.
John Ortiz as Arthur:
Arthur is Monk’s enigmatic literary agent and confidante. He plays a pivotal role in navigating Monk’s career and pushing him out of his comfort zone.
Erika Alexander as Coraline:
Coraline is Monk’s trusted assistant and confidante. Her loyalty and unwavering support offer a constant presence in Monk’s chaotic life.
Adam Brody as Wiley:
Wiley is Sintara’s publicist and a close friend. He represents the world of celebrity and glamour, contrasting with Monk’s introspective nature.
Leslie Uggams as Agnes Ellison:
Agnes is Monk and Cliff’s mother, a wise and loving matriarch who provides a sense of grounding for her sons.
Myra Lucretia Taylor as Lorraine:
Lorraine is Lisa’s mother, a strong and opinionated woman who adds another dynamic to the family relationships.
Okieriete Onaodowan as Van Go Jenkins:
Van Go is a fellow writer and friend of Monk’s. He offers support and encouragement as Monk navigates the challenges of his career.
Keith David as Willy the Wonker:
Willy the Wonker is a mysterious character who appears to Monk in dreams and offers cryptic advice. His role is shrouded in ambiguity, adding a layer of intrigue to the narrative.
Raymond Anthony Thomas as Maynard:
Maynard is a bartender at Monk’s favorite haunt, providing a space for relaxation and reflection.
Miriam Shor as Paula Bateman:
Paula is a literary critic whose harsh review of Monk’s work throws him into a tailspin.
J. C. MacKenzie as Carl Brunt:
Carl is a rival author who embodies everything Monk fears about himself and his career.
Patrick Fischler as Mandel:
Mandel is a film producer interested in adapting Monk’s work. He represents the potential rewards and challenges of Hollywood.
Michael Cyril Creighton as John Bosco:
John Bosco is a priest and mentor to Monk, offering spiritual guidance and support.
This diverse cast of characters brings depth and complexity to the story of American Fiction, exploring themes of identity, creativity, family, and the pursuit of artistic fulfillment.
