"Jeffrey Wright's Hilarious and Solemn Performance in American Fiction Steals the Show"
Originally Published 2 years ago — by The A.V. Club
American Fiction, based on the novel Erasure by Percival Everett, is a sizzling and hilarious satire that takes aim at the commercialization of art and the stereotypical perception of Black people. Jeffrey Wright delivers a commanding performance as the protagonist, Monk, and has fantastic chemistry with the rest of the cast. However, the film's attempt to also be a family drama detracts from its sharpness, and the resolution of the conflict between Monk and a bestselling Black author feels diluted and unsatisfying. Despite these flaws, American Fiction remains an entertaining journey.