Amerikatsi: Review

5th November 2022

Amerikatsi: Review. By Jake Peffer.

Amerikatsi follows Charlie (Director/Writer Michael A. Goorjian) who as a young boy escaped Armenian genocide by stowing away in a trunk heading to the United States. Jump to 1947, Charlie returns to Armenia only to greeted by the harsh reality of being an American in Armenia. Charlie is arrested and put into solitary confinement for simply wearing a tie and they don’t want him influencing other prisoners with his “cosmopolitan” ways. After an earthquake damages the prison, a small opening is formed outside Charlie’s cell window where he can see into a close by apartment. An Armenian couple lives in the visible apartment and becomes Charlie’s only connection to the outside world and the only thing keeping him going each day.

While pulling triple duty on this movie, Michael A. Goorjian puts together a wonderful movie that tugs at the heartstrings but isn’t afraid to have a little fun from time to time. He takes a unique approach to showcasing the harsh realities of being imprisoned in 1947 Armenia. Goorjian isn’t afraid to shy away from the rougher parts of being in prison but he is still able to put some light hearted moments to keep things from being overly dramatic. It’s the perfect blend of good drama with some much-needed glimmers of hope.

The movie is beautifully shot. Despite everything having a rather pale and gray palette the movie still looks great and the cinematography is done quite well. Goorjian keeps things moving along at a nice pace and doesn’t leave room for much filler. Not only does a he do a great job directing the movie but he is absolutely amazing in the lead role. While he has been good in things like SLC Punk, the performance he gives here is unlike anything we’ve seen from him and will make you want to see more. His supporting cast all do well in their roles respectively and Goorjian directs them masterfully.

Overall, there isn’t much to dislike in Amerikatsi. It may run a tad too long, despite having a good pace, but it’s well worth the ride. Michael A. Goorjian knocks it out of the park with this one and makes Amerikatsi a must see.

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