Cord Jefferson’s feature film debut is American Fiction (based on the novel Erasure by Percival Everett), is a satire of the book industry told through the eyes of Thelonius “Monk” Ellison (Jeffrey Wright) – a writer whose latest novel isn’t catching on. Out of frustration and a big middle finger to publishers, Monk creates a pseudonym (Stagg R. Leigh) and writes a book titled “My Pafology” that’s jam-packed with damaging exaggerated racial stereotypes about the black experience in America.

As Monk tries to wrap his head around his book getting praise and instant success, he’s also trying to keep his family together after a tragedy and the health of his mother (Leslie Uggams) beginning to decline.

American Fiction‘s brilliant satire addresses the media’s narrow view of the Black experience, the love of “ghetto” Black stories over the diverse Black experience in America, and the frustrations many black creatives face in industries that are obsessed with the bottom line.

Since stealing every scene in 2000’s Shaft, Jeffery Wright has been one of Hollywood’s most talented actors. Wright’s performance as Monk may be his best to date. At the center of the film, Wright delivers a character that’s intelligent, witty, a little prickly, and a bit romantic. Wright makes you believe Monk isn’t a good or bad person, just a person trying to navigate a difficult time in their life. The humanity Wright brings this performance it what gives the film a level of truth that shines through the satire and comedy.

Not to be outdone by Wright’s Academy Award level performance, Sterling K Brown delivers one of his best as Monk’s brother Clifford. Brown’s ability to show Clifford’s love, hurt, and disappointment is what makes him special. There’s some resentment and bitterness between the brothers that comes bubbling up in a few scenes. Brown balances those tense dramatic moments with hilarious moments perfect comedic timing is one of the film’s brightest spots.

One of the film’s most touching sequences involves a wedding. It’s a beautiful look at how families and communities show love to each other. Watching Monk soak in the wedding moment was one of the most heartwarming scenes in the film.

American Fiction is one of the year’s best films and one of the best satirical films ever made. It’s smart, funny, emotional, and thought-provoking. There are moments of laugh out loud comedy and there are moments when Jefferson is shinning a light on a bold truth.

Grade: A