Cynical, yet hilarious in its disturbing honesty, Richard Speight, Jr.’s short film, America 101, delivers a bleak and blunt assessment of the potential life cycle of a new heir to the American Dream. From the courtship, marriage and separation of Mom and Dad, as narrated by the emotionally battered and bruised Dad (Rick Gomez), the short lays out the potentially horrible future for the young Son, before he becomes the author of his own discontent.
And it’s a darkly comic scenario, for all involved, especially when the true nature of what you’ve been watching becomes apparent. Then funny becomes even more awkward and hilarious. If this Dad reminds you of your Dad, give him a hug and hide the sharp objects. You know, for his and everyone else’s safety.
I don’t know that there’s much more to say about this one. Check it out if and when you can, and be prepared to laugh, either with or at (if you’re fortunate in life, you’ll laugh at; if you relate, you’re laugh with while choking back sobs). For me, America 101 illustrated every aspect of the American Dream I hope I can dodge from here on out but, honestly, I’m as entrenched as anyone else.
I can’t find this short film anywhere? Where can I get it?