This 2023 release is a beautifully literate and emotionally dexterous film from screenwriter and first-time director Cord Jefferson. He explores the hypocrisy of the liberal elite in publishing stereotypical "black" street books and marketing them as serious literature as a means of absolution. He recruited a superb cast headed by Jeffrey Wright in his strongest role as English professor and flailing writer Thelonious "Monk" Ellison, a classic misanthrope who out of resentment of the racial politics, pens a "black" book under a pseudonym and finally achieves the commercial success he was craving. Needless to say, he doesn't find redemption much less happiness from this feat, but Jefferson infuses a sharp blend of comedy and well earned pathos in Monk's self-discovery journey. The supporting players play their rich roles with vigor and heart - Sterling K. Brown as Monk's openly gay brother, Tracee Ellis Ross as their resentful sister, Erika Alexander as Monk's no-nonsense romantic interest, Leslie Uggams as Monk's mother slowly giving into dementia, Issa Rae as a competitive author who has succumbed to the racial politics Monk abhors.