American Dreamer Parents Guide

American Dreamer,” a 2022 black comedy film, marks Paul Dektor’s feature debut as the director and is scripted by Theodore Melfi. Inspired by a segment from the radio show This American Life, the movie features Peter Dinklage as a professor attempting to purchase the estate of a solitary widow, played by Shirley MacLaine. The stellar cast includes Kim Quinn, Danny Pudi, Danny Glover, and Matt Dillon.

Having premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 11, 2022, “American Dreamer” is slated for a United States release on March 8, 2024.

American Dreamer Plot Summary

In the heartwarming film “American Dreamer,” we follow the journey of Phil Loder, brilliantly portrayed by the one and only Peter Dinklage. Phil is no stranger to life’s ups and downs – he’s a twice-divorced, slightly frustrated, and underpaid economics professor. But here’s the twist: Phil harbors a grand dream that many of us can relate to – the elusive dream of owning a home.

Now, picture this: Phil’s life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that seems like the answer to all his prayers. Hold on to your seat because this is where the plot thickens. Phil strikes a deal with Astrid Finnelli, played by the iconic Shirley MacLaine. Astrid, a lonely widow who’s nearing the end of her journey, offers Phil her vast estate for what seems like a steal – pennies on the dollar, to be exact.

At first glance, it looks like Phil has hit the jackpot, snagging the deal of a lifetime from Astrid, who’s childless and yearning for companionship. However, as Phil delves deeper into the intricacies of this too-good-to-be-true agreement, he quickly realizes that the American dream isn’t as straightforward as it once appeared. The sprawling estate hides secrets, challenges, and revelations that force Phil to confront the harsh realities of his pursuit of happiness.

In “American Dreamer,” the film skillfully weaves together humor, heart, and a touch of poignancy as Phil navigates the unpredictable twists and turns of his newfound opportunity. Join Phil on a rollercoaster ride of self-discovery, friendship, and the realization that sometimes, the path to the American dream is paved with unexpected lessons and a generous helping of human connection. Get ready for a tale that reminds us all that life’s greatest adventures often begin with a dream – even if that dream comes with its fair share of surprises.

American Dreamer Parents Guide

Language: Mild language throughout the film, with occasional use of mild profanity.

Themes: The movie explores themes of divorce, economic frustration, and the complexities of homeownership.

Violence: Limited to mild comedic situations; no intense or graphic violence.

Sexual Content: Brief references to relationships and past divorces; nothing explicit.

Drug and Alcohol Use: Social drinking is depicted in a few scenes; no drug use.

Frightening/Intense Scenes: Some moments of tension and suspense, but overall, the film maintains a light-hearted tone.

Message for Parents: “American Dreamer” is generally suitable for all audiences. However, parental guidance is advised for younger viewers due to mild language and themes that may require explanation or discussion. The film offers an entertaining and thought-provoking experience for families to enjoy together.

Why is American Dreamer not Rated?

“American Dreamer” may not have an official rating due to a variety of factors, such as its independent or limited release. Based on the content, a suggested rating would be PG-13 for mild language and thematic elements.

Cast of American Dreamer Film

1. Danny Pudi as Craig
2. Matt Dillon as Dell
3. Peter Dinklage as Dr. Phil Loder
4. Shirley MacLaine as Astrid Fanelli
5. Danny Glover
6. Michelle Mylett
7. Donald Heng as Dr. Berton
8. Garry Chalk
9. Kimberly Quinn as Maggie Pennington
10. Rebecca Olson as Beatrice / Babette
11. Raresh DiMofte as Boris
12. C. Ernst Harth
13. Kimberley Shoniker as Susan
14. Brendan Riggs as Rick the Owner
15. Frank Warburton Bailey III as Officer James
16. Corina Akeson as Middle-Aged Mom
17. Davin Tong as Econ Student #2
18. Rami Kahlon as Econ Student #1
19. Jennifer-Juniper Angeli as Jim Stanley Jr.
20. Frederic Robinson as Security Guard
21. Annette Jensen-Collett as Bank teller
22. Masa DeLara as Mansion Woman (credited as Masa Delara)
23. Thaddeus Monckton as Mercedes Driver
24. Clayton James Booi as Student Videographer
25. Christian J. Stewart as Bar Patron / Reunion Attendee (uncredited)

Key Points:

• Director and Cast: Directed by Paul Dektor, the film features a stellar cast including Peter Dinklage, Shirley MacLaine, Danny Pudi, Danny Glover, and Matt Dillon.
• Plot: Phil Loder, an economics professor, seizes a chance to buy a widow’s estate at a seemingly great deal. The story unfolds as Phil navigates through the hidden complexities of his dream.
• Premiere and Release: Premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 11, 2022, the film is set for a United States release on March 8, 2024.
• Genre and Themes: “American Dreamer” is a comedy-drama exploring themes of divorce, economic frustration, and the challenges of homeownership.
• Parents Guide: The film has mild language, occasional profanity, limited comedic violence, brief references to relationships, and social drinking. It is generally suitable for all audiences, but parental guidance is advised for younger viewers.
• Rating: The movie may not have an official rating, but a suggested rating would be PG-13 for mild language and thematic elements.
• Runtime and Production: The film has a runtime of 1 hour and 46 minutes and is produced by Dektor Film, Goldenlight Films, and Estuary Films.
• Release Dates: The limited theatrical release and streaming release are both scheduled for March 8, 2024.
• Message: The film weaves together humor, heart, and poignancy, showcasing Phil’s journey of self-discovery and the unexpected lessons that come with pursuing the American dream.
• Cast: The ensemble cast includes Danny Pudi, Matt Dillon, Shirley MacLaine, Danny Glover, and others in various roles.