AMERICAN LETTERS | Omeleto

A widowed mailman befriends a co-worker and suspects she's in an abusive relationship.
AMERICAN LETTERS is used with permission from Kevin Keck. Learn more at kevinckeck.com.
Nick is a mailman in rural East Tennessee. He's good at his job; he likes fishing; he's been alone for some time. Yet he's shy -- perhaps a little stuck in life -- and struggles to make a connection with other people.
But then he finds himself drawn into a friendship with a co-worker named Robin, and the two become closer over shared meals and cups of coffee. She is warm and friendly and pulls Nick out of his shell.
But Robin's life is more complicated -- and potentially tumultuous -- than it initially seems. She's seemingly involved in a toxic relationship, and Nick must reconsider his involvement with the one person he's connected with for a long time.
Beautifully crafted and compassionate, writer-director Kevin Keck's compelling drama goes deep into one's character journey out of personal isolation, as one man rediscovers the value and beauty of connection.
With painstaking attention to detail and an eye for nature's tranquil beauty, the writing and visuals have a patience and quiet gracefulness, and the film itself takes its time to build an unusually deep portrait of its main character. The pacing and editing take their cue from the main character's own personality, by taking great care with the small details and rhythms that make up Nick's world and life, capturing his work and the solitude of his town.
The beauty of rural Tennessee is captured in all its serenity, but it also reflects something innate about Nick: he's just as still and reflective, but sometimes that solitude becomes an obstacle in connecting to people and living a larger life.
Nick is deftly and precisely portrayed by actor Ree Johnson as a quiet, almost withdrawn man, but Johnson endows him with a powerful sense of inner life, with sensitive powers of observation and a kindness underneath the self-contained demeanor. The willingness of the film to meet its protagonist where he's at makes for an unusually compelling investment by the audience into Nick's journey, which comes to a fork in the road when he's confronted with the truth about Robin's life. He feels he should edge away and perhaps mind his business, but it also is a choice between the safety of his solitude and the risk of a bigger, more satisfying life.
Like its title, AMERICAN LETTERS is a very American story that captures life in a small, sheltered part of the country -- a place that has shaped people themselves to be self-contained and self-reliant as the world around them. But humans are social creatures who also crave community, fellowship and connection, and this tension is explored with great resonance through this quiet, modest yet lovely character portrait. We come away feeling as if Nick could be anyone we know, whether it's the barista at our favorite coffee place or the cashier at our grocery store. No matter how quietly they operate at the margin of our lives, these people all have rich, deep stories to live and tell -- and how much richer and deeper our own lives would be to hear them.

[@kevinkeck2433]

Hi everyone! From the entire American Letters cast and crew, thank you for watching the film and we hope it brings something special to your day. I'm really proud to have directed the film. If you have any questions, I'd love to answer them!

[@tazeenfathima181]

Whoa!! You are best...!!😄😃

[@Radius477]

Hi Cast and Crew. Well done, my friends!! Just the right touch with all the pieces in place. Your story is poignant and touching. It stills the emotions, gently, and it speaks to and of relations. Thank you.

[@UVjoint]

This might be something deliberately left to interpretation, but I'm assuming Robin left Brian after his (ahem) gentlemanly behavior? That's the new beginning she's referring to, right?

[@kevinkeck2433]

@@UVjoint I think you have it exactly right. Robin is packing up her car prior to Nick's arrival and I always imagined that she left and never looked back. Her last communication with her life in Tennessee was that letter she sends to Nick. But I think by that point she has started a new life somewhere else. That somewhere else is an unknown and can really be anything the viewer imagines it to be (a beach town, a big city, somewhere snowy, etc.).

[@eg1197]

Kevin can you please CC this short. I can only hear bit of this and that. You did a wonderful story of 2 beautiful friendship. Nick played the role perfectly.

[@samueldavis1524]

The mailman taught the young lady how to follow her dreams. She encouraged the mailman to live a little. I think fishing lessons to the older woman had now come to fruition.

[@samueldavis1524]

@@browncatwithblurredbackgro2461 Keep your personal stuff to yourselves nobody cares.

[@thedaggonator]

@@samueldavis1524 what did they say?

[@poodledad806]

@@thedaggonator I also want to know the gossip.

[@bluebutterflywellness2273]

I need a friend like Nick in my life.

[@franktoni23]

I always believed that when relationship goes wrong, you either sort it out immediately or end it fast. If you let the situation go on for a long time, it starts to stink and fester, and invariably ends up in very broken heart. The weakest and the most vulnerable is bound to be the most hurt. At times like that you really need a true friend. A very good movie, presented very well.

[@helixmoore7636]

100% facts.

[@richardderosset6960]

Sometimes the strongest and most capable are the most sensitive and venerable !

[@Rebeccasweet100]

Agree but some people are scared of change.

[@cgallagher5023]

One person used the word "venerable" in lieu of "vulnerable" -- that was a sort of 'Freudian slip' almost . . . !! It still made sense! LOL

[@luigiperrone8169]

Good one. He's a good actor.

[@donnawoodford6641]

I agree he plays the postal worker role very well. The real USPS could use some help these days, so if he wanted to switch careers...🤔

[@MAILLADY2010]

Big Teddy Bear 🥰

[@audreymai2773]

So is she.

[@jordanaestelle7442]

This made me cry he reminds me of a father figure :(

[@fedpain4279]

i cried because the boyfriend reminds me of a father figure

[@lisaellis2593]

Same.

[@harlowjademermaid1882]

he really did, i felt he had a perfectly timed delivery. Such a multi-faceted, easy going personality & an emotionally charged actor, i loved him & his story, and did not want this to end!

[@robertbeining141]

Absolutely love Nick. The man is gentle and salt of the earth. If he was real I would ask him if I could be his friend. Really enjoyed this short.

[@lastmanstanding2622]

you wouldn't have to ask.

[@robertbeining141]

@@lastmanstanding2622 You are so right about that!

[@adriannathegreat9890]

I bet he's nice in real life

[@SpaceCadet2569]

I loved this. Wanted it to be longer. It’s not often that you find yourself actually caring about a character in a story. In a world where electronic communication is the gold standard, we forget that hand written letters still have a profound effect on the people receiving them. Connection with people , real people, is what we need.

[@upstreamtoast3512]

Your mom

[@daniele.parentmradamgamera2500]

syits is true

[@SpaceCadet2569]

Syits ???

[@daniele.parentmradamgamera2500]

Space Cadet 69 the other dude in the comment section that said your mom

[@valeriacoffee2970]

So true, I needed this it was real sweet since the COVID it has made a lot of people realize that everyone needs love and companionship.

[@matokaknox971]

Memories...I'm retired postal employee and fisherwoman. I loved this story.

[@PsycheClops]

Me at the beginning: nice music Me at the end: *sobbing*

[@daimonmarioperez9501]

During these difficult times. A feel good short story is needed. Kindness transcends race or color. In the end, we can learn to just be good to one another... For we are all of the same race. The human race...

[@drunkgrizzlybear9431]

Daimon Mario Perez I Fully agree bro thanks it’s nice to know there’s some good people out there

[@Eyelikewatchinvideos]

Wonderfully said.

[@daimonmarioperez9501]

@@Eyelikewatchinvideos Thank you

[@MissMcD]

💯

[@davidwolstenholme3672]

THATS WE WE ARE ALL THE SAME RACE WE ARE GODS CREATION.

[@AaronHendu]

Whenever I am feeling cold and inhuman, I come to Omeleto which remedies that real quickly.

[@libertine40]

I'm a former computer/network consultant. One of the pioneer melanated women to go into the field back in the mid 1980s. Even though I've been steeped in technology, I've always loved handwritten letters and cards. MOF - I always keep a package or two of blank cards in my stationary drawer (yes, I still have one of those...plus custom printed address and letter closure stickers 🤭). There's nothing like the personal connection a hand drafted letter with art doodles, or one using calligraphy, can bring into fruition. It implies caring and concern; that you took the time to communicate in an authentic and unique way. Email could never, or ever, replace it. Thanks for the reminder. ---------------

[@Scratchingforcash]

I think everyone needs a Nick in their life.

[@DE-ey9lb]

The actor that played the mailman is great!

[@ramonalujan5889]

Lost my companion 6 11 20 feeling sad today made it better somehow

[@RPRosen-ki2fk]

Sorry to hear that. Best Wishes.

[@drd.n4695]

Glad to hear this short brought you peace. Do what makes you happy. Seeing you happy makes the departed soul happy ... Much love.

[@tylonap21]

you're not alone. I'm sending prayers your way. I'm glad you shared and this made it better somehow

[@paulabrown6840]

I’m so sorry. Wishing you love and light. 🙏🙋🏻‍♀️

[@davidwolstenholme3672]

i lost my wife in 2013 after over 47 years of marriage

[@pamthe2nd]

Loved this. Nick is a great guy, a real man. This short had me crying. No one really knows what someone else is going through and it was wonderful to see how open and loving Nick is. Just a wonderful story of compassion.

[@Abby-yc7tt]

I want a man like him in my world. Simply Beautiful.

[@mznaeture]

Awww I like Nick 😊 he's a good guy 👍🏾💖

[@333anders6]

except the fight part, he forgot to summon his powers

[@mznaeture]

@@333anders6 riiight 😆 wtf happened there yo i was pissed bout that punch

[@Catherine-wn8dh]

Seriously he's older but he's a big guy. I wanted to see him knock the guy out but the point was that she didn't need a hero she just needed a friend so it fits.

[@jenniferharden2258]

TOTALLY!

[@drefloresca95]

i've been feeling very lonely the past few weeks and this made me really appreciate the little moments of connection i've had with people. thank you for showing this ❤️

[@windya444]

Learn to be gratefull for anykind of companionship so i can survive life

[@robertmitchell8630]

So true

[@noneofyourbusiness302]

Yes ma'am

[@bluedamsel1185]

It took a feisty young woman to ruffle his feathers a bit before he in the end approaches the lady who had a real interest in him from the beginning. Bittersweet story, but I liked it a lot!

[@drd.n4695]

She instilled hope in his heart 💗

[@jaelzion]

And it took a caring older man to show her that she deserved better than her abusive husband, so she could get out of the situation. Mutual benefit.

[@pumpkin_it_slawson3588]

I'm so glad that I got to live in a time when we still wrote letters. I would write my boyfriend at the time and spray my perfume on the paper and envelope, I would put lipstick on and kiss the paper too. 🧡

[@brianwhite9555]

When he was having coffee with Robin, I kept thinking, "Man, you need to hook up with the chicken lady!" She was looking for company, so I'm glad he did in the end.

[@ItsCookiePartyy]

This was an amazing piece. I like how simple it was. Didn't over dramatize the physical aspect but it was there and you know it was a key element.. the friendship didn't need to be romantic, it was one of human connection and compassion.

[@mrshappilymarried1]

Well said.

[@darrenw.taylor2084]

If I were a member of the Guild, I would recommend this short for an award! I loved all of it and hope to see more...

[@dawg3865]

That mailman reminds me of my father

[@dancingnature]

He reminds me of my godfather who was a wonderful human being ! Thank you Mr D for being a father to a scared mistreated child.

[@yusufbey9634]

Man, this touched me

[@The-Cat]

where did he touch you, show on this teddybear where he touched you

[@yusufbey9634]

M M your a loser

[@monro2159]

Sometimes everything just clicks. Story, writing, actors (especially Ree Johnson), direction, cinematography, editing, music, location, situation. This hit each nail firmly on the head. A lovely short that felt so real, mature and beautifully studied. Really great work.

[@BiLLz66614]

Man I’ve chose to live a life of loneliness these days. Just easier to deal with. But seeing this makes you really want a friend you can just vent to ... or that can bring the best out of you. Good short.

[@sharonswift8668]

BiLLz614 I feel the same way

[@cristalcruzzin1756]

One of my co-worker would tell me about the abuse she went through but she would say it in a way that it made it seem like it wasnt "that bad". I told her to get help, I even asked her if she wanted me to call for her but no. I dont like getting involved unless needed, DV cases especially bcuz you never know. The person needs to be ready to leave if not, theyll just go back. Hopefully my co worker is doing okay.

[@tyecorp7891]

This hit me right in the feels. I tend to keep to myself although a fair number of women pursue me. I too need to live a little.

[@marisolclaudio4364]

Yes live a little 😊

[@afifakimih8823]

As the days go by I am getting addicted to short length movies. Can such beautiful stories be avoided?❤❤ And btw,He is very Quality actor.!!

[@PlanetYokoshima]

I'm always sincere and open up. It made me make the closest friendships quickly. Do not listen to what society tells you, to hide your misery.

[@malabou75]

Nick and Robin helped one another in each's time of need. I thank the Heavens to have met my Robin. Our lives diverged in different paths, but I am eternally grateful for that profound and lasting friendship.

[@markburr6081]

Nick you are a great guy with a big heart, get a boat, take that sweetie fishing and catch some fish. nicely written!

[@nao7816]

He is a wonderful actor! I look forward to seeing him in more future projects💕

[@donaldrobinson9823]

Loved it. Well acted and written.

[@ultranate8618]

That was awesome we all need someone even for the briefest of moments. This was awesome to those who are alone you never know what can happen by saying hello to someone. This was beautiful.

[@ronhollie4177]

Another short film that can easily be an hour and a half long movie! Awesome!

[@nileshsharma6265]

i really don't understand why one partner try to keep the relationship when other hurt physically. that should be totally unacceptable. whatever is chemistry in between but he can't hit her or vice a versa.

[@Katlady001]

Have you ever been in love with someone? Sometimes love blinds a person to the extent that they ignore the abuse. It’s unfortunately but true.

[@nileshsharma6265]

@@Katlady001 love dont give any kind power to accept or give any kind of voilence

[@durchhalter]

I never understood what would have to go on in woman's head that she would take such abuse even when she's financially independent and is offered help!?

[@zirak93-2]

Any man hitting a woman should be ashamed of themselves for the rest of their lives. They don't deserve the person they are with and should not be able to be with any girl before they realize their own mistakes. This was a side note. The story was sweet and sad at the same time.

[@raquelf.1962]

this story was both sad but uplifting at the same time. They both helped each other. They actors were really great.

[@ericjennings6267]

Its a nice story however in reallity guys be careful in getting in the middle of a domestic issue like this it can be dangerous trying to play the hero

[@WilliamParkerer]

It's not a domestic issue, it's a patriarchal issue that happens to most female partner. And he is not trying to "play the hero" by saving someone from constant abuse.

[@bluebutterflywellness2273]

Truth. Some people have gotten killed for this and the abused winds up taking them back anyway.

[@Katlady001]

This is true to stir clear of domestic situations of others, including family....it never ends well. This is often why the police take their time when answering to a potentially volatile domestic situation.

[@terywetherlow5980]

Eric: i so agree with your comment. She seemed a tad naive at best. Maybe i am too old for the new ways. Loved the story tho. Tee

[@terywetherlow5980]

@@bluebutterflywellness2273 So true.

[@docfmb1]

People are just people, we are all the same no matter race, age ,religion or anything else.

[@harlowjademermaid1882]

superb acting, i did not want this little heartfelt story to end at all! Its not common to be soo drawn to a characters life story, but with these subjects, I felt that i needed to see where it ended up! Very good job to all involved! Tragic, yet so beautifully & emotionally driven; Great ending, such a thought provoking story, once again!

[@TheSean7564]

ALWAYS, without exception, impressed by the amazing quality of the acting in these films! Thank you!

[@andrewhancock2451]

Yes, people like the boyfriend aren't exceedingly rare. The story is a happy one because of where it wound up. The music was touching.

[@eddietucker3334]

Beautiful story, wonderful cast, just top notch in every way. Thank you!

[@Famous5821]

I met a Jamaican cab driver in NYC, my friend and I took his cab from the airport but my friend lost our Host's address. So we had to drive around looking for a last minute hotel stay. We couldn't find a hotel as only 2-3 bookings are accepted on weekends in NYC. Even worst, due to baseball match a lot of hotels were sold out After much calling at phoon booths, driving around aimlessly, the cab driver invited us to stay with he and his wife. He also took us the airport the next day. Rare and exceptional. Long before the days of accessible cellphone, wattsapp etc. Always wished we could have seen him again. My friend assured me she had the address so we could write him. Regrettably she informed me that she lost the address somewhere during our trip home to Jamaica.

[@vernonsmith6176]

Wow! That's awesome...I use to work as a doorman. Long story short...young lady had a big fight with her boyfriend. She didn't have money to back home in new Jersey. So, I paid her for the car service from Flushing ny.😊

[@maxmason6053]

Here's another heartwarming one that brought out some tears... Thank you Omeleto and Kevin Keck.

[@adriannathegreat9890]

I noticed an optimistic spring in his step at the end when the lady waved to him

[@Prizzy999]

Beautiful story of a friendship and salvation from abuse, loved every second of it, well done!

[@antheairenedevilliers1657]

Charming and touching story.. Really lovely

[@mysisterisafoodie]

When is retirement age? Should Nick still be delivering mail? He deserves to be somewhere on a beach enjoying his retirement.

[@tiffanybenefield1980]

My thoughts exactly.

[@eg1197]

Likely he love his job. Plus he's lonely, plus his job fill the void.

[@ishaarai]

"Hey, I am not that old."

[@MissMcD]

@@ishaarai yep 😁

[@alb5801]

I’ve met plenty of people still working in their 70’s whether due love of job or the continued necessity of full income, most were the latter.

[@diannesheridan2243]

Beautiful, sweet warmth right now. As a victim of domestic violence... yes, we can get out of it and start over AND succeed!!

[@jasonseta8242]

wowzers. that hit me! very nice. such authentic performances from the leads.

[@THEinSEnDeaieri]

They got some really great shots throughout this.The choice of angles and cuts are so great for the storytelling. Good job!

[@lyziemeowmeowmeow9787]

That story made me feel good. Thank you for making it.

[@ldavanzo44]

Such a wonderful story! Thank you!!

[@TheTektronik]

I love the twists and turns the short movie takes leading up to climax and character portrayals are great as well.

[@tracybarbour6531]

Just lovely.. touched my heart, especially the strings at the end.

[@ulama7828]

*More of these tear-jerkers please.*

[@alison4316]

Oh, man. This got me ❤️ Perfect for Fathers' Day ❤️

[@cruzan8183]

This short film was extremely touching. 😢

[@elaineel-adly2872]

I loved this short, I didn't want it to end. Awesome!

[@stevethomas74]

Elegant, simple and wonderfully told. Thanks!

[@durasaxon5131]

Loved this. True to life. An area like a dream, too!

[@TheRealObama420]

Possibly the only let alone short film I am invested in the character with

[@TheNashea16]

That was so simple yet beautiful

[@lovablerogue9984]

Another enjoyable watch, thank you

[@MAILLADY2010]

Beautiful story and reminder ...

[@rachelsclassESLEnglishvideos]

Wow... kinda sad and thankful at the same time.

[@lastmanstanding2622]

My man Nick turned out to be quite the player. Live on buddy. 🤗

[@stasha121]

Such a great short. Very lovable characters.

[@ernestinejones5308]

Nice to meet u Allen very outstanding movies keeping coming 2 thumbs up

[@wasabi5134]

I knew it was a good idea to watch this one. Excellent

[@danielharbold7996]

Yall need to be making movies I love this channel

[@jroc2k]

This is why you never get involve in somebody else's relationship, no matter how bad it is

[@rj....tarzanofthegrapes8182]

Nicely done Awaiting sequel. Thank u

[@thebisz5581]

Heart warming ❤️

[@tinasawyer4480]

Wonderful! Gave me the feels!

[@ning-ningshalom3266]

Beautiful story.

[@tinajimenez-spalding6804]

Thank You! I really enjoy your work!!!

[@clarissadewet1401]

I really like this story. thank you for making it!

[@keithbrian7129]

This one made this old widower cry -

[@natural91LC]

The actor (mailman) was great!

[@KB-lb1jg]

As soon as omeleto uploading I never clicked so fast

[@drd.n4695]

Just beautiful ...

[@floraaa111]

Something to warm the heart. Yayy.

[@terriarheghan3676]

What a great short film!!👍🏽❤️🎬

[@DivyaJyotiArya]

Absolutely beautiful story.... 💖💖💖💖

[@user-uz2ej1iz5e]

The brother has a Forest Whitaker in GhostDog vibe. Nice.

[@Pancakes4din]

Cut me right in the feels..

[@marieross]

Great little film, loved it

[@kaT-ori]

thanks for this. touching.

[@rubyrabbit5381]

I loved that ending!

[@minniemoore]

Great portrayal of the story. Also, nice version of "Wayfaring Stranger" playing in the first diner scene. Somewhere in the hills of Tennessee. Hard to beat.