Directed by Jay Karales, ‘Middle American’ is a short film and music video for Mario Cuomo’s latest solo release ‘Middle American’. Cuomo is best known for being the lead singer of the American rock band ‘The Orwells’. Set in the American Midwest (Chicago and Kansas), the short delves into the social struggles of the region – highlighted by the disheartening lives of the aptly titled characters, Chicago (Kenney Dorcely) and Kansas (Stone Head). Mario Cuomo features throughout in performance of his track.
The 5-minute video opens with Chicago, an African American delivery driver. Chicago is a melancholic character with a dishevelled car. His job, undertaken out of necessity, has left him with an uninspiring attitude with no light at the end of the tunnel. The film also features Kansas, a White American, who strolls through his community in a state of vexation. The music and lyrics are heavily poignant throughout – a commendable rock ballad worth streaming.
Jay Karales has created a heartrending video with an unvarnished plotline. Cinematography (Jay Karales and Rope Groth) is crafted predominantly in slow-motion with a rough shooting style – accompanying the track impeccably. The film delivers on its goal of showcasing desolation and hopelessness. A striking watch from start-to-finish. Highly recommended.
