Amerikatsi is about a man named Charlie who was born in Armenia only to flee the country during the Genocide. After World War II, the leader of USSR Joseph Stalin, offered money to all Armenians living in the diaspora who want to return to Armenia to have a new better life. Charlie who is played by Michael Goorjian returns to the motherland only to be wrongfully imprisoned by the Soviet enforced Armenian prison. During his time he learned more about his culture while he watched a couple from his prison window. He lived vigorously thru the couple, eating, drinking, and cleaning while they do their chores. Much like Roberto Begnini in Life is Beautiful the storyline, direction, and cinematic background were beautifully filmed in Armenia. This movie definitely deserves an Oscar for best Foreign Film let alone Best Picture. Amerikatsi means American Armenian and I hope this film receives the same respect as Begnini's movie. I know most of you won't bother but trust me when I tell you it's a great movie. Michael created, produced, directed and acted while Serj Tankian helped produce it. Definitely add this to your list.
40 Reviews
A fresh take at living under the Communist regime in Eastern Europe
bohdanascheinostova19 March 2024
This touching emotive picture proves that we still have not used up topics and themes focused on the life in the communist era based on real events, because Amerikatsi comes with a pleasant and quite fresh new take on this genre. Instead of showing the events of this film in a serious dramatic way, Amerikatsi managed to take a much lighter route, which still feels deep and profound, but offers more subtle and gentle way to show the hardship of the communist regime in Europe. Even though the story takes place in Armenia the plot could seem somehow familiar to many who were born in Eastern Europe and their nation used to belong to the Soviet Union, so in that sense it is quite a relatable picture that the viewers could connect with. I also loved how Amerikatsi did not try to be a big succesful Holywood movie and opted for much more intimate approach instead. Overall I was very pleased with this picture and in the end actually a bit moved.
Wow! A Masterpiece
sxxnbywv26 October 2023
I just finished watching this movie with my husband and I have no words. Truly magnificent! I felt so many emotions. It was so beautifully done that the same scene that made me sad turned into humor and laughter the next minute. And the way the main character looked out the window from his prison cell and learned about his culture was so cleverly done. Amazing acting, beautiful costumes, clever lines. I highly recommend this movie and already told so many of my friends to watch this. My parents would definitely enjoy this movie as well considering they grew up in the Soviet Union up to the point it collapsed.
Touching, factually accurate, and so well acted!!
ybhkjkrzp18 October 2023
I found this movie to be very touching, factually accurate, and so well acted. The movie recounts the historically correct campaign by Stalin (who controlled Armenia in the late 40's) when he was enticing Armenians from other countries to leave their countries and move to Armenia. He appealed to their desire to start a better life in their new "homeland".. Needless to say, life in Armenia was very difficult and not what was advertised. Without giving away the plot, the movie is structured through the eyes of an Armenian from America. Great verbal and non verbal acting from the main characters, splashes of humor, flashes of humanity, some plot twists, and very timely. Go see this movie. You will not regret it.
Very touching and timely
nanaz-7199626 September 2023
Poignant film, especially now with the usual geopolitical issues going on in Armenia. A quiet, charming movie. It's been a while since I've seen something like this. No super heros in sight! There's an underlying sense of longing and the observations from his window are very telling. Interesting way of storytelling and filmmaking. I think a lot of Armenians in the diaspora can relate but the film speaks to people who have curiosity of places they've never been, which seems completely counterintuitive but I think a lot of viewers can identify with the themes in this movie. While it's not available at the average neighborhood cineplex, it's worth seeking out.
A+ for Amerikatsi
aragasparyan-1472326 October 2023
I just finished watching Amerikatsi & felt compelled to immediately write a review. This is the best film I've seen all year. Michael Goorjian's performance was Oscar-worthy. Truly spectacular! The storyline was so touching - we all got emotional. Armenians have collectively been in mourning since the 2020 Karabagh war but this film gives us a healthy distraction from the trauma & reminds us that even though we've gone through endless hardships, we always persevere & never lose hope. This is a movie for everyone, not just Armenians. It's a movie that all your family & friends can enjoy, regardless of skin color or religious background. Amerikatsi will leave a mark on your heart.
One of my favourite films this year
robertmargaryan-0871012 October 2023
This film is easily one of my favourites this year. The casting is spot on and the film showcases its story in a way that doesn't make you feel like you're watching it, more like you're breathing it. Particularly being an individual who grew up in a post Soviet state the nostalgia and the experience feels like it was my own. I was excited to see this movie when it was originally announced and it did not disappoint by any means. The exploration of trauma and freedom is one of my favourite aspects of this film and I imagine that anyone watching this film can connect deeply with those feelings. Can't wait to watch it again soon.
triumph of human spirit
vigenvalijan18 October 2023
"Americatsi" is a triumph of human spirit over the ugliness and brutality of the dark side.
In a world that the "regime" under the pretense of "good for all" crushes every attempt for happiness by Charlie (our naive hero), and tries to to punish his spirit in every possible way, he keeps on fighting even when he has nothing to fight with other than his smile.
Of course the regime can not enforce its evil without help from its agents: ... some agents are complete evil (like the buractrat woman in the pison) ... some are partly evil (like the warden who does a good balancing act, who tries to pepper his wrongs with some good deeds) ... some know they are pawns in the game and try their best to avoid helping evil (like the prison guard who brings food for Charlie) ... some are innocent souls stuck in that hell (like Tigran the guard at the tower); he is a kind soul that suffers the most...much more than Charlie. Tigran's suffering gets exasperated when he gets a macabre reward.
At the end, Stalin the invisible antagonist who is personification of evil, is dead; though the game goes on, perhaps forever.
Our naieve hero, Charlie, knows that but he does not care; he knows that nothing can steal his spirit away and he will always have that magical weapon with him.
"Americatsi" is a simple story about a simple man... but it tells a graet story about the spirit of mankind...
In a world that the "regime" under the pretense of "good for all" crushes every attempt for happiness by Charlie (our naive hero), and tries to to punish his spirit in every possible way, he keeps on fighting even when he has nothing to fight with other than his smile.
Of course the regime can not enforce its evil without help from its agents: ... some agents are complete evil (like the buractrat woman in the pison) ... some are partly evil (like the warden who does a good balancing act, who tries to pepper his wrongs with some good deeds) ... some know they are pawns in the game and try their best to avoid helping evil (like the prison guard who brings food for Charlie) ... some are innocent souls stuck in that hell (like Tigran the guard at the tower); he is a kind soul that suffers the most...much more than Charlie. Tigran's suffering gets exasperated when he gets a macabre reward.
At the end, Stalin the invisible antagonist who is personification of evil, is dead; though the game goes on, perhaps forever.
Our naieve hero, Charlie, knows that but he does not care; he knows that nothing can steal his spirit away and he will always have that magical weapon with him.
"Americatsi" is a simple story about a simple man... but it tells a graet story about the spirit of mankind...
Wow truly beautiful movie.
dayana42124 September 2023
I was not sure if I was going to like this movie since so many movies disappointed me . What a beautiful surprise, what a great movie. It's a piece of history. Done so well. It touched my heart. Great acting, at times you just see the emotions on the face and body language without actors saying a word. Such a delicate gentle story filled with pain and happiness. Written, directed and acting in the main role by Michael A. Goorjian. So obvious he has so much talent. Excellent direction with deep writing and great original music combined with some ethnic music. Highly recommended, you will walk out of the movie happy that you watched a quality movie doesn't happen very often.
Goorjian deserves several Oscars!
nairip-3010213 October 2023
Beautifully acted, sensitive and touching, this movie uses humor and pain to tell a a unique story of an Armenian Genocide survivor. Michael Goorjian is tremendously talented as star, writer, director. His tearful eyes are the heart of this movie. His acting is tremendous, worthy of an Oscar nomination. I hope he becomes a household name in Hollywood. He deserves it! Everyone should be able to appreciate this wonderful story, but as an Armenian, I am so proud of this beautiful film! Loved all the many references showing Mt. Ararat as the symbol of the strength and beauty of the Armenian people.
Must see movie !
vahekeshishiani19 October 2023
A must see for those who like art and cherish movies about power of human relationship and connections.p Slow start but quickly I wanted to see more ! A beautiful and touching story showing the strength of human connection through art, even when two human beings are placed in opposing roles , (prisoner and prison guard) they still connect above the atrocities. Amazing cast with Michael Gourjian, Hovik Keuchkerian, Nelli Uvarova and Narine Grigoryan. Dramatic, comic and sometime historic. During the same movie you will laugh , feel sad and happy. Love independent movie theaters because they give a chance to the real artists ! Great movie to watch to scape the quotidien routine.
Storytelling at its best
lgoorjian27 December 2023
This movie takes you on an journey filled with trepidation, learning, sadness, humor and joy. It takes place in the 1940's when the country of Armenia is no longer under attack by the Ottoman Empire, but instead a state within Stalin's USSR. The story primarily takes place inside a prion, however it manages to transcend the confinement of the prison walls to successfully immerse the viewer to fully experience and happily root for the protagonist's (Charlie played by Michael Goorjian) through his unexpected ordeal. Despite the cruel reality of state of the country and a completely unwelcoming backdrop, the film is ultimately uplifting and speaks to the power of persistence and optimism and how those traits can inform the lens in which we experience life.
Perfection
liciaswork5 October 2023
A film of hope, perseverance, and culture. Set in Armenia after WWII, Amerikatsi is a story of an American Armenian man taking a Soviet offer that doesn't turn out as expected. Michael Goorjian's work as writer, director and actor is unparalleled. I'm truly blown away. I don't know if I've ever seen a more perfect film that has brilliant direction, outstanding acting, humor, tear inducing moments of joy and sadness, historical lessons, and cultural immersion, all without a single big name celeb. Bring your tissues and be prepared to see a film that will stay with you for a long while. ********
Fantastic story and lesson for America's future
drgneel-0628912 November 2023
Loved this movie! The way it plays out is perfect. This is a must see story that teaches us a lot about how life can be affected by our decisions. Great portrayal of oppression of innocent people for political persecution. This movie is also touching story of survival. A heartfelt reality of what many people went through while living under an out of control oppressive government. Sadly this is America's FBI and DOJ. We worried about Russia while liberal Democrat Americans crated the same system here that Russia used. Watch and see your future if you continue to vote Democrat. Hope you enjoy this movie as much as I did.
THE BEST MOVIE I HAVE EVER SEEN
tsolerhay31 December 2023
I can't say enough about this movie.
I'm speechless.
I have never seen such a great movie for a very long time.
It's in my opinion the movie is in a greater value of too many unforgettable movies.
Michael A. Goorjian has created a masterpiece.
The production, the frames, the characters, the deep philosophy behind the scene is so touching.... I couldn't stop my tears throughout the entire movie, and I was on an emotional roller coaster... It talks about the pain the Armenian nation had to go through all the way back from the genocide going forward, but yet all the love and humanity that traveled with us all around the world.
I'm speechless.
I have never seen such a great movie for a very long time.
It's in my opinion the movie is in a greater value of too many unforgettable movies.
Michael A. Goorjian has created a masterpiece.
The production, the frames, the characters, the deep philosophy behind the scene is so touching.... I couldn't stop my tears throughout the entire movie, and I was on an emotional roller coaster... It talks about the pain the Armenian nation had to go through all the way back from the genocide going forward, but yet all the love and humanity that traveled with us all around the world.
Truth, (In)justice, and the Armenian Way
mnsweere13 February 2024
This movie is a story for the ages. I can't believe it didn't receive an Academy Award nomination for International Feature Film. The main character's hope and lust for life despite great injustices being enacted toward him is truly inspiring. Really shows the humanity inside all of us and the value of sympathy when empathy cannot be felt. Every Armenian family has a story very much like this; I know mine does. Was worth seeing in a theater, is worth buying on streaming, and is worth being licensed on a streaming service. Also, the cinematography is striking, oddly beautiful; most of the film takes place inside a not-so-beautiful place.
No words
khatchgk18 January 2024
Such a beautiful, touching, funny, warm, nostalgic, and yet heavy and deep with all of the many topics it touches. Much needed for the voice of Armenians worldwide. 11/10. Even for people that do not also share our culture, I think it provides an amazing view into the culture and heritage, as well as all of the history that comes with the country. This is one of the best films that covers anything Armenian, but the charm is that it not only can appeal to people of the nation, but also anyone that has a heart or is looking for a touch of humanity in their life. This movie, while very heavy, is also hopeful and a good reminder of humanity.
Very Humane Veryyyyy Good ;))
sophiekhachatryan13 February 2024
This was so great, I love the idea I love the actors I love everything haha, if you decide to watch this do it for 10000%
It has its dark sides and light sides, and the start is actually a bit tricky but of course the "meat" comes later. You can also watch this with your family, if you're from Armenia it might even make you cry in some points both in a good way and bad way. It has lot's of layers to it.
So, in conclusion, my personal recommendation is - watch it in the evening with your family or close friends, it's for sure worth it.
Don't forget to leave your own rating after you watch it!
It has its dark sides and light sides, and the start is actually a bit tricky but of course the "meat" comes later. You can also watch this with your family, if you're from Armenia it might even make you cry in some points both in a good way and bad way. It has lot's of layers to it.
So, in conclusion, my personal recommendation is - watch it in the evening with your family or close friends, it's for sure worth it.
Don't forget to leave your own rating after you watch it!
A hugely pleasant and moving surprise
lauremaude16 February 2024
I did not expect to like this film as it's always tricky when we have big productions on Armenian historical topics (see: The Promise). I was completely and pleasantly surprised to have adored and been so entertained and moved it. It was so well done, so poignant... It really was impressive and I recommend it wholeheartedly. The acting, music, and plot were engaging. I particularly appreciated the nod to Sergei Paradjanov. I also really appreciated how it wove together different key moments in Armenian (and world) history so effectively. It's especially nice on the big screen or on a projector screen.
Brilliant movie for all Armenian diaspora genocide survivors
pamelabayleykaufmann13 February 2024
Make no mistake, this movie is not an "easy" watch. It is difficult, raw, honest, challenging, and yet also absolutely brilliant. It tells the story of a diasporan Amenian-American ("Amerikatsi") rescued as a small child after his family gets him out of Armenia during the persecution and genocide by the Turks hidden in a small shipping trunk. He lands eventually in America, builds a life, and after his wife dies, he returns to his homeland as he seeks to understand and know his Armenian roots. By then, it's 1948 and Armenia is under Soviet control. Stalin has promised restitutions and favorable conditions to Armenians scattered around the world if they return. The main character in the movie seeks to reconnect with his homeland to feel a renewed sense of belonging, and returns with naivite. What ensued was a most harrowing experience and it is unrelentingly heart-wrenching, but for the unexpected connection he made with one of his jailers. This movie made my heart ache and it also thrilled me with the beautiful resiliance of our Armenian ancestors and what many experienced post-genocide. Highly recommended movie. In the final scene, the moving toast made by the main character, "To all the Armenians around the world who can see past the walls that separate us...May we build upon our smiles instead of tears." says it all. What beauty in overcoming tribulations and persecution!
AN OSCAR WORTHY MOVIE
agabekyankarenflims6 March 2024
As an Armenian-American aspiring filmmaker, I can say that this movie is a MASTERPIECE. Michael Goorjian had really done such an amazing job writing the script for it, directing the film and even starring in it. The Armenian culture in this movie is ACCURATELY AMAZING. I loved every single moments in this movie.
This should've been nominated for the Oscars in the Best International Feature Film category. But I'm happy that this is the very first Armenian movie that made at least in the shortlist.
Besides Michael Goorjian, the rest of the Armenian cast had really brought their A-game throughout the film and I really recommend this to all Armenians out there.
10/10.
This should've been nominated for the Oscars in the Best International Feature Film category. But I'm happy that this is the very first Armenian movie that made at least in the shortlist.
Besides Michael Goorjian, the rest of the Armenian cast had really brought their A-game throughout the film and I really recommend this to all Armenians out there.
10/10.
Love and kindness
yrvdgrbk12 February 2024
This film is about a man with a heart of gold who goes through immense suffering and hardship and yet he preserves his humanity, the ability to help others, to enjoy the little moments in life, and to make other people smile. He is deeply compassionate and kind. We need more films like this and we need more men and women like this in our world. It is a good film to watch with friends, family and children. Very educational and intelligent, also, beautifully made. The cast is very good and so is the music. I enjoyed every second of it and I will definitely be glad to have a chance to watch it again.
Beautiful film
stellaadler-8401312 February 2024
As a non-Armenian, I was surprised by how this film moved me so deeply and undeniably touched my heart. Goorjian's performance was incredible & worthy of so much praise. He carried the entire movie with his eyes and facial expressions. The supporting actor who played the security guard/neighbor also gave a heart-warming performance. I felt a connection to all these characters. Amerikatsi shows us the power of resilience, perseverance and love during unexpected tough times. I'm shocked that this film wasn't nominated for an Oscar. I recommend Amerikatsi to anyone who wants to watch a beautiful work of art, with wonderful actors and unforgettable storyline.
Timely movie about the triumph of the human spirit
cmckbcktn10 February 2024
Warning: Spoilers
This comedy-drama takes place in post-WWII Armenia (SSR) at a time when the Soviet Union sponsored a program to bring ethnically-Armenian diaspora back to their ancestral homeland.
Charlie Bakhchinyan, who flees Armenia as a young boy during the Armenian genocide, returns to Soviet Armenia under the aforementioned program to rediscover his roots and homeland. He soon finds himself in a squalid prison which happens to have a window where he watches a young couple's life unfold over the course of more than a year. He observes cultural richness, love of family and friends, and conflict arising from having to abide by Soviet restrictions that sometimes run counter to culture, education and religion. Charlie watches from a significant distance and cannot hear, so it's akin to a silent movie. His nickname in the prison so happens to be Charlie Chaplin.
The dialog is fast paced and witty. The dialog from the Soviet apparatchik is spot-on and absurdly hysterical. The overall mood of the movie is one of hope and forgiveness amidst irrational brutality. Michael Goorjian captures this mood with finesse. The casting and scenery are superb. Go see this movie now!!
Charlie Bakhchinyan, who flees Armenia as a young boy during the Armenian genocide, returns to Soviet Armenia under the aforementioned program to rediscover his roots and homeland. He soon finds himself in a squalid prison which happens to have a window where he watches a young couple's life unfold over the course of more than a year. He observes cultural richness, love of family and friends, and conflict arising from having to abide by Soviet restrictions that sometimes run counter to culture, education and religion. Charlie watches from a significant distance and cannot hear, so it's akin to a silent movie. His nickname in the prison so happens to be Charlie Chaplin.
The dialog is fast paced and witty. The dialog from the Soviet apparatchik is spot-on and absurdly hysterical. The overall mood of the movie is one of hope and forgiveness amidst irrational brutality. Michael Goorjian captures this mood with finesse. The casting and scenery are superb. Go see this movie now!!
Amerikatsi: Michael Goorjian's Odyssey
asbedb7 February 2024
Bedros Afeyan and I interviewed Michael Goorjian for our podcast show about his excellent movie Amerikatsi. Our conversation is on Youtube as well as in our podcast channel for Armenian News Network - Groong.
Goorjian weaves so many aspects of film making in Amerikatsi, such as Benigni's La Vita E Bella, Hitchcock's Rear Window, and of course the whole Chaplin element. In a beautifully sound designed film Goorjian throws back to silent era films, with a repat Armenian who returns from America to a now-Soviet Armenia (in the 1930's) who is imprisoned, silenced, and forced to participate in all the good things in life remotely, from a prison window. We discussed many aspects of the film with Goorjian, so please take the time to listen to him in Episode 307 of our podcasts. Our youtube channel is @Groong where the podcasts are posted as well.
Goorjian weaves so many aspects of film making in Amerikatsi, such as Benigni's La Vita E Bella, Hitchcock's Rear Window, and of course the whole Chaplin element. In a beautifully sound designed film Goorjian throws back to silent era films, with a repat Armenian who returns from America to a now-Soviet Armenia (in the 1930's) who is imprisoned, silenced, and forced to participate in all the good things in life remotely, from a prison window. We discussed many aspects of the film with Goorjian, so please take the time to listen to him in Episode 307 of our podcasts. Our youtube channel is @Groong where the podcasts are posted as well.
See also
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