As children, British actor Paul Blackthorne and Australian photographer Mister Basquali both fell in love with America. Later they each fulfilled their dream to live there, but after two wars, a near economic collapse, and uncertainty about the country's direction, these two expats began to have doubts—was America still the great place they once dreamed of?
They drive across America to find out, interviewing random people about issues that affect and confront us all. From the ghetto to the gun show, the courthouse to the cattle yard, they are touched by the wisdom and insight of the people they meet.
This American Journey is a cinematic postcard from the people to the people, teaching us that hearts can be healed at the most unexpected times and in the most unexpected places.
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Written by Eli Kay
It all started when British actor Paul Blackthorne and Australian photographer Mister Basquali, decide to go on a road trip across America. His purpose was to find out what the people think of all the changes that occurred over the past years, especially with the recession. A simple idea gave birth to an intriguing and inspirational concept.
Blackthorne, the maestro in the center of this fascinating collage of stories, manages to portray a raw beauty of the young and vibrant country.
It all began with an idea to take a road trip across the country with Basquali and talk with real Americans about the state of the country. They would explore the country they both had fallen in love with since childhood.
So the journey began, the film begins with the business issues and how small business owners feel about the economic crisis, but it quickly moves on to deeper, more personal areas, talking about sociology, racism and religion. It is then that the truly wonderful colors of people’s souls are revealed.
It shows how willing they are to work to make the country they live in, better, how smart and extraordinary characteristics they have and how open, honest and compassionate they can be.
In the end, the film speaks for itself. And what it has left in my mind and in my heart is that we should embrace variety and diversity. We should get up, dream and achieve. One by one come together and contribute to make a change and help make a better world.
