‘American Dreamer’ focuses on personalities and relationships

Category: Movies

Peter Dinklage and Shirley MacLaine star in the eccentric dramedy American Dreamer.  Dinklage is Phil Loder, a college professor who is down on his luck. He lives in a tiny apartment and longs for the American dream of owning his own house. Well, be careful what you wish for.

Loder attracts women of all ages, even his students. He has an interesting personality and an intelligent mind. What he doesn’t have is a house he can afford. Then he sees an ad in the classifies. He can purchase the entire estate for a big bundle or, and here is what interests him, he can purchase a guest room and when the occupant dies he will automatically get the house and all the property. And this is one beautiful property. It’s huge.

What would anyone do in this situation? Apparently the occupant, Astrid Fanelli (MacLaine) is an invalid, aged, and not long for this world. Loder sells everything he has and cashes in his retirement to take the second option. 

When he moves onto the property he is met with a dilemma. Astrid doesn’t seem like the invalid she is supposed to be. He realizes he will be living in the little room for longer than expected. But nevertheless, he now owns part of the American dream. Success. 

A friendship soon grows between Astrid and Loder. In the beginning he is upset about his situation, however as he gets to know her, he sees how kind she is and they become more than acquaintances. They become good friends. 

Then Loder is met with another situation. This guy has one problem after another. He seems like he is the consummate loser. But is he? His problems mount up and he finds himself in much the same situation in which he started. But … never say never. Things can change. Life is a series of surprises. And yes, even for Phil Loder.

This is an odd story but the acting is entertaining. Matt Dillon co-stars as Phil’s real estate broker and sometimes friend. 

The message is, if you are a good person, you can achieve the American dream. It might take time and a lot of hard work, but it is possible. And for Phil Loder, it does take a lot of hard work and maneuvering through some difficult situations. The relationship between Astrid and Phil is what makes this show as entertaining as it is.

American Dreamer opens in select theaters and will be available On Demand beginning March 8, 2024. It is rated R for disturbing material, violence, some strong sexual content, pervasive language, and drug use. It’s definitely for adults only.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.