America’s Family (2022) Film Review
Anike Tourse’s America’s Family is proof of something we need more of in modern cinema.
If a film is set on making a comment on a real and current situation, the film doesn’t have to envelop itself in a tragic setting that’s excessively emotional, and can get tiresome for viewers. Films made with passion are not equal with backdrops that lack hope.
Tourse’s journey is fierce, illuminating and refreshing. It doesn’t shy away from addressing the real issue at hand, and at times it’s more of a docudrama with unrecognizable recreations. However, it never feels like a hopeless jab at the powers that be. Optimism isn’t often translated this easily with films that aren’t documentaries and approach this subject.
America’s Family is the story of the Diaz family, a group led by immigrants who face their worst nightmare during America’s most iconic celebration, Thanksgiving. ICE agents, the government agency that deals with immigration issues, arrive at the household and take Marisol and son Koke. The father manages to escape and seeks refuge in a synagogue. The rest of the family desperately watches as the Diaz are separated.
What follows is a journey through the deep, muddy waters of a justice system that simply hasn’t progressed and hinders on the survivors of a social prejudice that’s incredibly hard to understand for those who haven’t lived through a similar situation.
The film is told through vignettes that explore the aftermath for the Diaz family members as they each go through different situations. This varied and ultimately compelling stream of ideas is framed in a script that touches ground on many territories that could or not be related to the subject of immigration itself. Religion, gender issues, mental health, are some of the subjects that America’s Family focuses on in its many situations.
What’s impressive is how the film never loses a bit of authenticity while trying to tell many stories at once. Even when it drifts away from its main plot, and goes for a Mexican culture examination it feels relevant. Also, in the hands of cogent secondary performances this part of the film remains the sharpest in my opinion.
When America’s Family must touch ground and deliver on its final point, the third act is rushed through to make way for its powerful ending. It’s not a film that’s supposed to show closure in the most traditional way, but it’s coherent enough for the audience, who are already aware they aren’t watching a traditional drama.
The very important America’s Family is a solid endeavor by a filmmaker who’s supported by an impressive crew. I can guarantee they identify themselves with what Tourse is trying to communicate. This is noticeable in the film. And even though we are certain this is indie territory, a noble vision and dedication make America’s Family more than one of the bunch of films that shed light on a current matter. It actually puts it on the table as an issue to approach and fix. Sure, it’s in the hands of representatives, but as the film shows, we can do more than just sit and wait for powerful people to act. We can speak our minds, and America’s Family works as a damn good start.
