“American Fiction” is a 2023 satirical drama film directed by Cord Jefferson, based on the novel *Erasure* by Percival Everett. The film stars Jeffrey Wright as Thelonious “Monk” Ellison, an African-American author and academic who becomes frustrated with the stereotypical portrayals of Black life in mainstream media. To expose the publishing industry’s biases, Monk writes an exaggerated, satirical novel under a pseudonym, which unexpectedly becomes a bestseller. As the book gains popularity, Monk grapples with the consequences of his satire being taken seriously, challenging his views on authenticity, race, and identity. “American Fiction” explores themes of cultural appropriation, racial stereotypes, and the complexities of Black identity in America, offering a sharp, humorous critique of the literary world and society at large.
American Fiction
