Caro Lin

American Skin is a stark reminder of the state of our nation and highlights various topics surrounding the painful reality of the daily lives of black and brown families in America. Nate Parker brings to life this powerful and heartbreaking story in such a raw and honest way only he knows how. He leaves nothing at the table with his newest motion picture. He portrays the main character in such a uniquely vulnerable and powerful way that it will give anyone the ability to identify with him. As a mother of a 13 year old son I was able to connect with him from beginning to end! It was an immense roller coaster of emotions. The entire cast did an extraordinary and phenomenal Job. The dialog exchanged throughout is thought provoking, intense and honest. This is no ordinary tale! It is a film our generation and frankly the world so desperately needs. American Skin is suppose to invoke something deep within us but we are only able to discover it, if we allow it and are willing to do our part. It is necessary and difficult but the good news is it is possible! We can do so by viewing this film as a human being first. We will be able to form an unbiased opinion by pulling back every layer of our belief system and sit with our emotions no matter how uncomfortable it is. American Skin gives everyone a voice and presents the onlooker with the chance to see each perspective in its own complex way. What Nate was able to do with American Skin is an honest and admirable attempt to captivate it’s viewers and bridge the gap that has been separating us for far too long. If we make use of the legacy he is creating and help carry out this important message into the world we step foot in every day, by having meaningful conversations and interactions with the people we cross paths with, then we have the ability to not only change the way we perceive one another but also the world around us. We can change the future for the better not only for our children but for generations to come.