Experience the power of sacred Ghost shirts in Tony Tost’s directorial debut film, Americana, showcased at SXSW. This Western dramedy is packed with surprises, thanks to its brilliant writing and perfectly timed comedic moments. The star-studded cast, including Sydney Sweeney, Halsey, Paul Walter Hauser, and more, brings this captivating story to life.
Meet Cal, a young boy fascinated by black-and-white cowboy movies. While he immerses himself in the world on the screen, his sister Mandy, who resembles Joan Jett, and local troublemaker Dillian argue about Cal’s peculiarities. It turns out Cal believes he is the reincarnation of Lakota ancestor Sitting Bull, which adds to his uniqueness. To escape Dillian’s abusive household, Mandy knocks him out and takes his car keys, but Cal insists on staying because “his people need him.” Left with no choice, Mandy promises to return when they are financially stable. When Dillian wakes up, he grabs a gun to chase after Mandy, only to find Cal armed with a bow and arrow. Little does he know, Cal is not joking around, and chaos ensues.
Meanwhile, Lefty Ledbetter prepares to propose to Penny Jo Poplin, a waitress at the local diner. Penny, who stutters, tries to offer advice but gets distracted by a young man writing something on a napkin. Curiosity gets the best of her, and she discovers a meeting invitation for Friday at the diner with a hefty sum of money involved. Penny convinces Lefty to eavesdrop on the meeting, leading them to uncover a heist plot involving Dillian, Fun Dave, and Roy Lee Dean. Determined to get the ghost shirt and keep the money for themselves, Penny and Lefty devise a plan. However, things get complicated when Ghost Eye and the Indigenous community become involved. Trust me, it’s all connected.
Americana tells its story out of order, adding an intriguing element to the narrative. Tony Tost masterfully weaves together various plotlines, creating a tapestry of action, comedy, and suspense that both honors and deconstructs the Western genre. This film challenges the traditional heroism of cowboys and explores themes of cultural appropriation, all while avoiding offensive stereotypes and white saviorism. Tost’s direction keeps things simple, allowing the characters to shine within their frames. The talented cast, with standout performances from Halsey and McClarnon, brings depth and humor to their roles, making Americana a captivating snapshot of life in America.
Title: Americana
Festival: SXSW, Narrative Spotlight
Director-Screenwriter: Tony Tost
Cast: Sydney Sweeney, Paul Walter Hauser, Halsey, Eric Dane, Zahn McClarnon, Gavin Maddox Bergman, Simon Rex, Derek Hinkey, Toby Huss, Harriet Sansom Harris
Running time: 1 hr 50 min
