Directed by Deandre Fulton, from a script by Kevin Brown, ‘American Dad’ is a short drama film that examines a father’s animosity towards his son’s shift in career. Kevin Brown leads the cast as the bitter parent, breaking the fourth Wall with a vexing monologue to camera. Christian Jarvis co-stars as the unspoken son. Viewers can expect heavily bombastic dialogue with a poignant narrative twist.
The 9-minute film opens with the father returning home from work. After noticing the mail delivery of his son’s university scholarship acceptance, the father retreats to his son’s bedroom – where an off-screen conflict arises. The father soon emerges and leaves the home with an explosive temperament. Throughout the monologue, we learn of his son’s change of heart in pursuing the sports scholarship – provoking rage due to the parental sacrifices he has made. Midway through, the father acquires an epiphany – where happiness takes precedence and reflects on his own life regrets.
Despite having a low production value, Brown’s narrative holds strong with its cardinal objective – personal contentment. Kevin delivers a powerful address, which is certain to keep viewers enthralled and engaged. Christian Jarvis’ portrayal as the son is unfortunately limited. The use of black and white cinematography that transitions to colour, aids the shift in narrative tone – an admirable technical technique. ‘American Dad’ is hard-hitting viewing, but the overall theme of unconditional love is endearing.
