The Cast of 'American Fiction' on Re-Writing Black Stereotypes | Entertainment Weekly

Jeffrey Wright, Tracee Ellis Ross, Sterling K. Brown, and Erika Alexander discuss their new film 'American Fiction' for EW's Around the Table series.
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'American Fiction' Cast on Re-Writing Stereotypes | Entertainment Weekly
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[@nca4794]

I just love Erika Alexander! It's so good to see her thriving.

[@presterjohn1697]

YES!!!

[@moringaottawa]

Yes she is great

[@kikiboharris1010]

Yesssss!

[@roypettigrew6453]

Absolutely! Cousin Pam been around for a long time!

[@Swish_God]

Maaaaann yes love Her‼️

[@cinemeleon2808]

The way Sterling reached for Erika in her vulnerable moment, was so keen, considerate and sensible. He quickly descerned her words and comforted her without hesitation. That kind of awareness and support is beautiful.

[@ndo533]

He was an absolute clown in this movie.. chewed up every scene he was in 😂😂😂 so hilarious. Amazing actor

[@CH-of2nk]

Be sure to listen to the whole conversation. However, this notable exchange begins at 8:31.

[@conservativeneurologyb4999]

....sensates....

[@uaintseememaaan8901]

I love when mature black performers get together in one room. It immediately becomes a family affair and the conversations are so genuine and full of love and support and appreciation.❤❤❤

[@jdotsalter910]

Amen.

[@p.w.e.2374]

If this movie brings Erika Alexander back, then that's GREAT. She's so underused in Hollywood, it's rather sad.

[@Crystal-dr2xi]

She's played in the Wu-Tang series and was really great in that as well.

[@baxatakbaxatak2014]

Ngl id sign off on a six-episode miniseries revival of Living Single YESTERDAY.

[@sarahb-rh9dd]

Back from where she's been acting you and these 198 ppl must live under a rock sweetie

[@p.w.e.2374]

@@sarahb-rh9dd We know she's been acting, dear...just mean, with this movie she'll get even more stuff...duh.

[@sarahb-rh9dd]

@@p.w.e.2374 we? I only tagged YOU, DEAR so miss me with the attitude miss thing, calling that lady "underused" you oughta be ashamed that's not even a word🤣✌🏿🤡

[@askmom802]

So glad to see Erika Alexander again; she's phenomenal...

[@demoss75]

She's been working

[@abbieC88]

​@@demoss75 well, we all didn't know that 😂 chill

[@agoodday9247]

I wish this was longer. The knowledge, talent and experience these performers hold is so beneficial. Cannot wait to see the film.

[@IcedCoffeeandChaplaincy]

I know what you mean. This is art at its finest. The cast is exceptional - a reason to go to the theatres.

[@MarcelLWalker]

I hope that you got to see it. It's a phenomenal movie. If you did, I hope you enjoyed it too!

[@justinawithana]

The way Sterling comforts Erika is why we love him. Erika has BEEN a star! She was mistreated for her amazing talent and sight!

[@BreakbeatPoety]

That was a wonderful gesture, I too appreciated a brother looking to comfort his sis.

[@tinamarie8061]

He is truly an empathetic man. Love this guy

[@AverysCinemaReview]

Absolutely. That moment brought tears to my eyes. It said a lot, without saying anything. 💛

[@Tao_Tology]

" 'potential' is what you say when you think something isn't good enough" Just one great line out of a film stuffed with them.

[@valve6642]

I enjoyed this film SO MUCH. It was refreshing, authentic, had enough levity to keep it entertaining. The cast was STELLAR.

[@agl5132]

As a WOC fiction writer and how we are disregarded and constantly up against stereotypes let me just say 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽📚

[@zimriel]

"WOC fiction writer" so, not black.

[@nguzoloveinlofi3832]

Erika Alexander aging like chocolate wine.

[@CeeGeeZ]

🥰👌✌️

[@malcomalexander6927]

Seeing Erika Alexander is so refreshing! ❤🎉honestly, if Hollywood understood her influence they would put her in more films and shows. Most black people know her, if not all, and any movie or show with her in the main cast is instantly celebrated and watched.

[@ToOpen6seven]

Indeed!!!

[@IcedCoffeeandChaplaincy]

This cast is EVERY-SINGLE-THING. I will be at the matinee to see this, sneaking my white cheddar popcorn in my backpack. Its a thing! 😆

[@user-be7tc2bd6e]

REALLY ??? Oh,the horror !!! No,just kidding. LOL.

[@LeeLee-ux8gh]

You will truly enjoy this film👏🏾

[@valeriareed7234]

I am a long time admirer of Jeffery Wright……a very dynamic…..talented……extremely intelligent……outspoken and racially proud man……Always, I have been impressed by his artistic versatility…..Broadway…..Hollywood…..wherever…….Mr. Wright’s performances have bought me great joy and great enjoyment…….

[@jenng7389]

This was waaaayy too short. I love all of them individually and as a group they are amazing. I cannot wait to see this movie

[@Ron_Ne1214]

Incredible group of talented actors! Just watched the film last night, such a great film! We need MORE Erika Alexander!!!

[@91WriterzStatus]

I love the honesty, vulnerability and transparency of the Black experience of actors in film. This reminds me of conversations at ABFF. ❤ i cant wait to see this film. I love that there's smart comedic relief because we need it!

[@mon6745]

Erika is so amazing- glad she joined this amazing cast

[@KCNwokoye]

Love these honest and talented artists. So happy they didn't have to compromise their integrity in a wonderful film by a talented black film maker.

[@breatheandsoar]

Thank you for this honest and humorous conversation of what happens to us in this industry. As a retired Black female makeup artist (almost 30 years in the industry) I observed and witnessed lots.

[@tiwantiwaabibiman2603]

And most others where we are - just different circumstances.

[@MrBlackretreat]

I'm glad for Erika .. she one of the greats !!! I'm so happy for her 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@traveljunkie59]

I can’t remember when I’ve laughed so hard at a trailer. This movie is a dream and a marvel and I can’t wait to see it. The amount of respect I have for these actors is immeasurable. It will be a movie that I consider purchasing.

[@Ovprksdnw]

Just saw it and loved it!

[@traveljunkie59]

@@Ovprksdnw so jelly rn. 😁

[@Ovprksdnw]

@@traveljunkie59 You'll see it and hopefully enjoy it too :)

[@dakotac180]

I love black folks.

[@ginahouston9352]

@@Ninaweza 🤎🖤❣

[@baxatakbaxatak2014]

Tracee Ellis Ross always smiles like she’s kidnapped you and handcuffed you to her basement radiator.

[@Blessed-tn1wd]

🤭🤭🤣🤣🤣 dag!

[@terrymathis1446]

She’s Scorpio, she may be thinking about it! 😂

[@cinemeleon2808]

Watch her and her dad interact and suddenly, it will all make sense. They are such goofballs and she gets ALL of it from him. 🤣🤣🤣

[@zimriel]

@@terrymathis1446 she might actually be a cousin of mine

[@angelasims7377]

This is such a powerhouse cast! 💪🏽🔥

[@viewerdiscression]

The great Leslie Uggams played her part effortlessly, omg!

[@GuineaPigEveryday]

I really hope this movie does well, it seems fantastic, and its full of wonderful actors, always happy to see Jeffrey Wright in another big role, ever since Westworld I’ve just been in awe with his performances, i mean hell he was even the best part of the Shaft 2000 reboot.

[@sandranaudin7947]

This movie was phenomenal. The story was so interesting and funny and sad. The actors were so good. When the sister died...it broke me. When Lorraine kindly invited the brother with his 2 boyfriends to her wedding, it broke me. I loved that movie. ❤❤❤

[@naychagirl2389]

Jeffrey is always so elegant. It was great to see him with Erika and brilliant to have the marriage that took place between the people it did (don't want to spoil for those who haven't seen it.) The movie was a pleasure to see and loved seeing Erika on the big screen.

[@bilqis3]

Loved the honesty, vulnerability, and (demand for) dignity and respect in this conversation.

[@zimriel]

It's earned here. The movie earned it for them, by being good. The "society of magical n" thing that's coming out is not going to be good, like "the hate u give" was not good, but it will likely do a lot more business along the Berkshires and the peninsula

[@clairetong3479]

That was the best two hours I've spent in movie theater in a long while. I laughed so hard and cried even harder during those two hours. So much love to these guys.

[@chicofresh4396]

Erika eyes when the biracial girl talking about hair 😂😂😂.

[@cinemeleon2808]

Aye yoooo, peeped that too. Her shoulders were hunched and her head was down as she gazed over at her. He entire body language told a story. I certainly pray she doesn't feel diminished in Tracee's presence...as if she is not seen by her or understood, b/c Erika is indeed mighty great!

[@Tao_Tology]

Yes, because someone who is 'not completely black' could _never_ experience racism and prejudice and _definitely_ not treated (by racists and the uneducated) as if she was black. SMFH

[@jimbecarroll5780]

What biracial girl ?

[@jimbecarroll5780]

@@cinemeleon2808 think you're reading or projecting Way to much on to their body language and "thoughts" Wow !! Why would Erika feel "diminished" in the "presence" of Tracee ? If so, don't think she'd even be in this film let alone @ the table post discussion.

[@tinamarie8061]

Erika played her part sooooo well! So glad to see her! This is a really good movie. I was intrigued the whole time. It was such a good mix of satire & universality. It was so real it showed how ridiculous America is. Amazing dialogue.

[@purpleness64]

I saw this movie and was blown away by it..

[@DeRussellMasina]

I cannot WAIT to see this film. I love this room, I love this cast. 🎬 🌟 😎

[@Ovprksdnw]

I just saw it and loved it!

[@allenbrady8083]

Okay this was really good! Loved the chemistry, sense of honour and absolute professionalism on display.

[@zimriel]

don't know if you meant 'humour' but honour was here as well!

[@allenbrady8083]

@@zimriel Honour, yes - they truly respect each other I'd say

[@dharmawilson-grapevinenewz]

Rare moment to see so much talent sitting at the same table...I am so excited about seeing American Fiction...this cast is full of my favorite actors ...❤ you All...Happy Holidays and Have a Happy New Year 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉..2024 push forward a little more...

[@Daleysunshine]

I want to watch this film so badly but it’s not showing near me in Canada. I would literally need to fly or take a boat. So sad. Please bring this to Netflix or Prime.

[@Tao_Tology]

Please not Prime.

[@BreakbeatPoety]

I enjoy watching Jeffrey Wright act, he is an artist with great range. From the moment I saw the poster, I was like this cat is going play the whole spectrum. This movie was phenomenal and funny. It was a great afternoon with my Pops at the movie, two gray breaded black men and one with a cane walking a little "Stagg R. Leigh." lol (hey. I am a dad too) lol

[@Just2gofoods]

This video was way too short. I am looking forward to seeing this film! I have been watching Erika Alexander since The Cosby Show and recently watched films she has produced. Congrats to her, her fellow actors and the whole cast!

[@BeastIt9]

Wow! Great casting all around. Great conversation as well. So proud of this group of actors. #americanfiction #jeffreywright #erikaalexander #traceeellisross #sterlingkbrown

[@mash_amba]

Man I would love to just be in a room with these guys listening to them talk ❤

[@andreyamatthew2035]

What a great round table🤩🤩🤩🤩 all Talentedddddd and Gorgeousssss people🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾

[@ksfranklin7004]

I just saw this film and i am just in awe...🎉

[@PaulaRaBir]

Such a great film and great actors. Thanks y'al! Love ya

[@bart2923]

What fantastic film. Oscar worthy 🏆. The cast is outstanding…It’s ironic that they put this out when “the color purple “ came out.

[@DJShawn1980NYC]

Erika Alexander aka Maxine Shaw

[@user-be7tc2bd6e]

I remember her as that character too,but,that character she played was my least favorite from Living Single. Kim Fields character was one of my favs.

[@cinemeleon2808]

@@user-be7tc2bd6e That show wouldn't have been shiiii without Max. That was the most brilliant character on the show.

[@user-be7tc2bd6e]

@@cinemeleon2808 She never made me laugh,at all. Dingy Sinclair always made me laugh tho. Shout out to Sinclair. LOL. And I liked the character of the handy man too. I've always found Kim Fields very attractive,I want her as one of my baby's mommas. LOL.

[@aharper12]

It's funny cause Erika and Tracee are Scorpios, Sterling is an Aries and Jeffrey is a Sag... I know that set was nothing but laughs...lol

[@kenster8270]

Nice to witness those subtle gestures of compassion/empathy between these, like when Tracee touches Jeffrey on his arm, or Sterling touching Erika on her back as if to say "man that sucks, sorry you had that experience" while not interrupting the story but just nodding solemnly. Reminds me of mature adult friendships that I have [had] in my own life.

[@frankcheers7529]

Can we give it up for Leslie Uggams?!

[@sherenay3109]

🌼🌺💐🌹🌸

[@knightress5760]

The table of excellence. I absolutely loved the movie.

[@barbaraparker7681]

I just saw this movie and I love it SO MUCH! This cast is just perfect. The writing is brilliant, the acting is brilliant! It just has so much heart!

[@vermontmoocow]

This cast is so talented and the characters are super interesting. (I now want to see everything Sterling K. Brown does - he was fearless in this.) This movie has so much heart.

[@shayboogie3682]

This was so nice I had to watch it a few times 🥰🥰🥰. I just love seeing talented people sit around the table and have real conversations 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽

[@joannaebuwa9632]

One of the best group interviews I've ever seen. Such articulate and gifted actors. The level of conversation, understanding, support and love was genuine and wonderful to see.

[@futureflavors205]

Ive always loved Miss Alexander. Almost like a crush on a teacher lol. Anyway, feels like I grew up with her in my life

[@luvh8tr]

I enjoyed the movie immensely. I enjoyed this interview immensely. The entire cast was perfect. ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

[@edeshon7372]

I live in Germany and haven’t found a theater playing this yet. I was really looking forward to seeing it.

[@zimriel]

it's good.

[@Leanaburch]

It's January 18th I haven't seen 1 commercial for this film, which tells me I better see it ASAP!

[@monicat.4880]

I love this won an Oscar for adapted screenplay last night, this is a win for the whole wonderful movie.❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@DaveBroTube]

It's a great adaptation of a really good book. A lot of smart, creative decisions went in to how to tell the story on-screen rather than on-page.

[@bklyngirlost]

So, where’s the rest of this conversation?

[@tbarret320]

"Bamboozled" came to mind when I saw the trailer. I'm excited to see this film.

[@zimriel]

YES this is very much in that flavour. maybe a bit more subtle.

[@SouthernlivingUSA]

Get ready for the awards. This is the kind of movie I would nominate for an Oscar

[@mnikesawhitaker-haaheim7027]

This was fantastic!!!! Thank you. ❤❤

[@supersonja988]

Jeffrey Wright has been my favorite actor since i saw him Basquiat. His reciting of the poem in Lackawanna Blues changed my life!

[@cognitiveinspirations]

Love this conversation.

[@moranast]

This is such a great conversation

[@arma1096]

Top tier cast! Love all of em.

[@omiomardreamer0929]

Excellent insightful professional discussion

[@AverysCinemaReview]

This conversation is so refreshing. This movie is so needed. 💛

[@kymmazelle8424]

Love this. I hope I get to see it in London this week. 🎉📽 🎞🎞 🎬

[@melissadclark1979]

This cast is everything 🙌🏾

[@reedykat30]

My time was well spent yesterday when I watched this movie. Congrats on the accolades.

[@aquaticlibrary]

I can’t wait to see this movie

[@Greenz1100]

I can't wait to watch this weekend

[@nyaaams]

What a refreshing conversation amongst peers. Too short!! wanted a one hour conversation with them .

[@ajharris4861]

Wish this was much longer. I’m still trying to track down a theater near me where American Fiction is showing.

[@BaltoD60]

It's on Amazon❤

[@simonebaileycampbell2013]

Excellent!! I love my people.

[@zimriel]

gotta love your people speaking as a white man we whites should love ourselves more too we might be less insecure around blacks then

[@araya52]

Wow this table complete with Icon's and legends!!! Jeffery Wright sorely underrated. He is an excellent actor. Of course Sterling K. Brown, Erika Alexander who I always called Maxine K Shaw, Atty at Law, The Maverick! LOL and my most favorite funny lady Tracee Ellis Ross. Can't wait to watch this wonderful cast fabulous work!!

[@Angela-pi6zc]

Thank you, ACTORS!

[@afropoppette]

MAXIIIINE! Love Erika Alexander in everything, but I recently binge-watched Living Single. Loved it as a kid, love it more now. Can't wait to watch this.

[@mzhappyfree7688]

so excited to see this

[@mikecolin3983]

Looking forward to this.

[@paulatracy1802]

Excellent movie and excellent actors. I enjoyed each character . Great job 👍🏿I feel academy worthy

[@mauricefoster9413]

I love this movie. Excellent 👍🏿👏🏿👏🏿

[@peosmom]

I could watch these people talking about literally anything for hours. Excellent round table, excellent cast excellent movie. Go see American fiction. You will not be disappointed.

[@jc22358]

Loved it.Still processing.

[@andrefuller3017]

I love this cast together. Jeffery is treasured icon and it does my heart good to Erika back on the big screen. She is amazing alone with the rest of the cast members in this movie.

[@mdooms76]

So happy to see Erica in the spotlight again. Before Joan there was Maxine Shaw attorney at law😊❤. I love them both!

[@vegetariansuniteworldwide8091]

I can’t wait to see this movie! I am going this weekend!!❤❤

[@terrilove8910]

Excellent movie and I will say it lived up to its praise!!!!!’🎉😂🎉

[@nicolescott3265]

This interviewer was so insightful. The Black experience is real in every aspect.

[@blackspider1405]

I’d love to be at that table. Lol

[@christeec1918]

I will definitely check this movie out!

[@curlslegitbaby2981]

I just love Tracee

[@bowdencable7094]

I'm going to see this, I can only find it at the niche theater next to Amherst College, and it feels a little on-the-nose.

[@IDiggPattyMayonnaise]

The irony of this clip censoring the word he describes how important it was to not censor...

[@vanityfair001]

I saw the movie and loved it as the topic is very relatable. In regards to the interview, I'm a huge fan of Erika's interviews, love Jeffrey as an actor as well as Sterling and Tracee although in this particular movie Tracee doesn't have much of a role. I saw the KZbin video of Erika on The Breakfast Club and she elaborated more about working on this film. It was an excellent interview and if you get a chance I hope you choose to watch it.

[@mepulley7913]

True, but her role impacted the film. I LOVED this film for so many reasons. As a second generation Latina, I could relate to this film for so many reasons.

[@vanityfair001]

@@mepulley7913 I didn't see it that way? How was her role impactful to you?

[@mepulley7913]

@@vanityfair001 - She was one of the few people who really Knew him, and accepted him. She just wanted him to be that to the rest of his family that He didn't let in. She also brought out his dry but witty sense of humor. I don't want to give the film away, but her absence brought to light how far he ran, but ended up where he started out in life - with his family. At least that's the way I interpreted it.

[@adrienne3272]

This movie was phenomenal!

[@tiwantiwaabibiman2603]

Blacknificent! Now, this is a movie I want to see, especially as a write.