Imagine returning to your homeland after three decades, only to be unjustly thrown into prison. From behind bars, a hopeful American Armenian discovers an unexpected cultural connection. This premise sets the stage for “Amerikatsi” (or “The American”), a heartfelt comedy-drama and Armenia’s international Oscar contender. Written, directed, and starring Michael A. Goorjian, this film explores diasporic yearning while reflecting on the experiences of Armenian refugees who were forced to flee Nagorno-Karabakh.
A Dreamlike Prologue
The story begins with a young Armenian boy escaping the horrors of the Ottoman Army during World War I. Peering through a tiny hole in a luggage trunk, he glimpses Mount Ararat, a national symbol for Armenians. Decades later, this boy, now middle-aged and living in Poughkeepsie, seizes the opportunity to repatriate to Armenia. Unbeknownst to him, he stumbles into a Soviet-style family comedy, completely oblivious to the situation.
Cultural Isolation and Unexpected Connections
Through a series of misunderstandings and jealousies, our protagonist, Charlie Bakhchinyan (played by Goorjian), finds himself locked up for the egregious crime of wearing a polka dotted tie. As he spends his days with stale bread and hard labor, he develops a peculiar fascination with the simple home of one of his prison guards. From this distance, Charlie gains insights into Armenian culture and traditions.
Goorjian’s performance gives life to Charlie’s character, initially a stereotypical American abroad, drawing attention through his loud brashness and ignorance. However, as the film progresses, Charlie’s layers are gradually revealed, showcasing his defiance and unwavering hope in the face of adversity. The transformation of his physical appearance mirrors the drama unfolding, leaving us wondering if he can hold onto his optimism.
The Art of Looking
Goorjian’s storytelling is visually captivating. He skillfully alternates between his own subtly expressive performance and the animated interactions of Hovik Keuchkerian and Narine Girgoryan, who portray the bickering Armenian couple. The act of observing becomes enchanting, reminiscent of the magic of movies and the power of cinematography.
A Collision of Visual Storytelling
The film’s two opposing modes of visual storytelling, one intimate and the other distant and observational, collide like matter and antimatter. Art metaphorically gazes back at its viewer, creating a mesmerizing and explosive moment. This tonal oscillation is mirrored by the use of both comedic jazz and wistful Armenian folk music in the film’s score.
A Touching Journey of Reclamation
While “Amerikatsi” focuses primarily on Charlie’s perspective, with little exploration of the brutality endured by the prisoners and their Armenian guards, it still manages to evoke deep emotions. Goorjian, like playwright Tom Stoppard in “Leopoldstadt,” delves into his Armenian roots, seeking his place in a culture he feels disconnected from. The film becomes a personal fantasy of reclaiming a lost heritage, resonating with nostalgia and unfiltered tenderness.
In conclusion, “Amerikatsi” is a touching comedy-drama that skillfully portrays the struggles of cultural identity and the power of unexpected connections. It serves as a reminder of the importance of heritage and the enduring spirit of hope. For an intimate exploration of the Armenian experience, watch “Amerikatsi” and let its tender storytelling wash over you.
To learn more about “Amerikatsi,” visit F5 Magazine.