Director-screenwriter Christopher Yates tackles the difficulties of young love in his romantic drama, American Spirit. Melody (Yasmeen Fletcher) has just left her boyfriend’s party when she encounters her ex, Jonathan (Cooper Roth), at the local liquor store. It is a meeting of fate, as they have not spoken since high school. Coincidentally, they attend the same university in Texas. Melody and Jonathan reconnect over the course of a single night. They chat about their college experience and reminisce about high school. Melody and Jonathan also discuss their home lives and challenges in adulthood. Their hang-out starts light and a little flirty until their break-up is brought to the forefront.
Jonathan believes Melody was using him when they briefly dated in high school. Melody feels sorry for how her behavior affected him. The conversation gets heated as they argue about their relationship’s current status. Will they stay friends or become a couple? Melody believes this could be a chance to get back together since her current boyfriend is a selfish online gamer. Jonathan stubbornly thinks their break-up was meant to happen. Their conversation is passionate and vulnerable, stirring up rekindled feelings for each other.
“… Jonathan believes Melody was using him when they briefly dated in high school….”
Christopher Yates nails the complications of romantic relationships within Gen Z, and his screenplay captures the nuances of young love in a genuine and entertaining way. He excels with a mix of pop culture references, teen humor, and raw honesty in his dialogue. Yates presents romantic struggles in a refreshing, personable way. Jonathan is well-written because you can relate to his angst, frustration, and optimism as a young man wanting an honest relationship.
Yasmeen Fletcher and Cooper Roth deliver great performances. I hope they are cast in more films together, as they bring that iconic actor-actress pairing seen in previous film decades. Since Christopher Yates is a young filmmaker himself, his direction with the performances feels real. Casey Devine’s score has a distinct Billie Eilish-inspired sound and compliments the film’s youthful tone.
Christopher Yates’ American Spirit is a must-see romantic drama for today’s generation of young adults. It inspires hope for those searching for an authentic relationship.
"…must-see romantic drama for today’s generation of young adults..."
