Dinner in America

Sophie Dooley

“Dinner in America” is a romantic comedy first released in 2020 directed by Nevada- born director Adam Rehmeier. 

The plot follows two 20-or-so-year-old offbeat protagonists, Patty, who has quit attending her classes at community college and is struggling finding her “purpose,” and rage-filled Simon, who goes by the stage name John Q. in his punk band Psyops and is on the run from the law. Although the film had a showing at the Sundance Film Festival in 2020, it received little acclaim until recently. The sudden spike in popularity can be largely attributed to TikTok blowing up “Watermelon Song” by Rehmeier, Emily Skeggs and Kyle Gallner. Gallner’s recent projects, including both “Smile” movies and “Strange Darling” have also been credited for attracting many viewers. For all of those who have been Kyle Gallner fans since his infamous emo-boy role in “Jennifer’s Body,” it feels great to see that his star quality is finally being recognized. 

 I have seen “Dinner in America” numerous times and there are many unique aspects that keep bringing me back. For one, the casting is impeccable. My favorite character Patty, played by Emily Skeggs. From her Costco readers, to her cat-poop smeared smock, and her full body crack ups in the film, she is an incredibly memorable character, who anyone can see themselves in.

Also among the film’s best qualities is the humor. From the hilarious and high-strung character Kevin (brother of Patty) to the many contrasting (but all too relatable) family dinner scenes, this movie makes me smile every time. 

And I have to mention the coloring and visuals. In regards to color, the theme of primary colors in Patty’s wardrobe set early on by her American flag button up, the bright neons of the arcade scene and the dull coloring of suburban agriculture all behind a perfectly grainy camera quality, will help your eyes resist boredom for the entirety of the film’s 1 hour and 46 minutes. 

It is said by many that “Dinner in America” might just claim the title of a 21st century cult classic. Everyone has, at some point, felt like an outsider, which is precisely what Patty and Simon are, explaining why this movie strikes a chord with so many. What I think is so loveable about “Dinner in America” is that it isn’t really about any of the characters in particular. It is about how two people can come together and ignite so much change in each other's lives in regards to perspective and fulfillment, especially in a setting that is seemingly void of such things. 

Although the film contains some problematic elements, such as violence and various slurs, which understandably has turned some away from the movie, I believe these factors were included to shed light on overlooked hostility that occurs in seemingly tame environments. 

“Dinner in America” gives viewers hope and reminds them that in all time lines and circumstances, genuine people will find each other, and the start of your life is not dictated by when you start attending university or “find your purpose” in the mall food court, but when you go out and start living it on your own terms.