Common Sense Media Review
By Monique Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Comedy mixes economic commentary, strong language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
American Dreamer
What's the Story?
AMERICAN DREAMER follows Phil (Peter Dinklage), a moody economics professor who wants to own a home more than anything. He finds a mansion that's somehow within his price range, but for now he can only stay in the furnished room in the basement—he'll only be able to inherit the house when current owner Astrid (Shirley MacLaine) dies. Now, Phil must wrestle with his moral conflict about waiting for her death so that he can live his dream.
Is It Any Good?
This isn't a big, broad "comedy," but it is humorous in how it tackles the seemingly near-impossible goal of Gen Xers and millennials trying to own a home. It's a sad state of affairs, but it does provide American Dreamer with a great launching pad to examine just how far someone might go to achieve the "American dream." Dinklage chews up the role and is fantastic—though it's also worth noting that, as one of the extremely few little people who are cast in films to play complex people (versus stereotypes or fantasy characters), he's pretty much carrying the fight for improved representation solo with any role he takes on. Despite that weight, American Dreamer doesn't get bogged down, instead telling a compelling story about a person who wants to achieve what he feels has been promised to him.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about American Dreamer's commentary on economic conditions. How does it address the challenges of successful home ownership?
How would you describe Phil's character? Is he a role model? Why, or why not?
Did you notice any positive diverse representations in the film? Why is that important?
Movie Details
- In theaters : March 8, 2024
- On DVD or streaming : March 8, 2024
- Cast : Peter Dinklage , Shirley MacLaine , Danny Pudi , Danny Glover
- Director : Paul Dektor
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Indian/South Asian Movie Actor(s) , Black Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Archstone Distribution
- Genre : Comedy
- Run time : 98 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : March 18, 2024
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