American Fiction
Sharp satire about an African-American novelist who, out of frustration, decides to write a book full of clichés about black Americans. It becomes a resounding success. Winner of the Oscar for best adapted screenplay.
Afro-American writer and academic Monk is driven mad by all the rejections of his complex literary works. According to publishers his work is ‘not black enough’. Out of frustration, Monk writes a book under a pseudonym that features every single cliché about African-Americans he can come up with. His agent sends it to a major publisher who offers a huge advance. Monk can really use the money, but must face the monster he has created. Will he succumb to the culture he so despises?
Like Percival Everett’s novel ERASURE, on which the film is based, AMERICAN FICTION criticises popular media representations of African-American lives. At the same time, both novel and film come up with their own take on the position of African-Americans in the American media industry. This juggling act succeeds extremely well. The film has been nominated for five Oscars, including those for best film, best lead actor (Jeffrey Wright) and best adapted screenplay.
It appeared that AMERICAN FICTION wouldn't make it to Dutch theaters. That's why we're extra happy that we're able to screen this gem of a film a few times leading up to the Oscar weekend.