This friday I was talking at a meeting for teachers in Eindhoven about ‘What Storyteller are You” as a teacher. Illustrated different kind of storytelling strategies of teachers with movies like “Dead Poets Society” with Robin Williams as Rule Breaker and Jester. ‘American Dreamer’ would have been a great movie to illustrate the archetype ‘Dreamer’ or ‘Innocent’. Trust, hope, optimism that things will work out. In ‘American Dreamer’ the main character learns to use in the end the gifts of other archetypes, like that of the Warrior (to fight for a worthy cause).

Based on a true story from Chicago Public Radio’s This American Life, Paul Dektor’s “American Dreamer” tells the story of Phil Loder (Peter Dinklage), a twice-divorced, underpaid professor of economics, who dreams of home ownership that seems to be tragically out of reach for his budget. However, when an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity presents itself, Phil strikes a deal with Astrid Finnelli (Shirley MacLaine), a childless, near-death widow who’s offering her sprawling estate for a nominal amount. But Phil quickly discovers the deal is too good to be true and the American dream is not quite what it used to be.

Emmy winner Peter Dinklage is a perfect thespian match for the legendary Shirley MacLaine when it comes to curmudgeon-laced dialogue, while simultaneously giving these characters so much heart and grit that audiences will be inspired to reach into the screen to give them a hug. They’re a wonderful duo, and it’s their contributions and chemistry that anchor the film.

Combined with some insanely dangerous and comical stunts, Dinklage makes Phil lovable and relatable.  MacLaine hasn’t lost that edgy comedic energy audience love to witness her inhabit onscreen. There’s even a slight nod in the dialogue to past lives, which she has spoken and written about often over the years. Matt Dillon, Danny Glover, Kim Quinn, and Danny Pudi round out this perfectly cast flick with each character bringing some spice and flavor to each scene they inhabit.

Immensely entertaining, it’s clear that director Paul Dektor’s empathy and heart dwell in the right place for a story ultimately asking the questions of what one needs to be happy, how far we are willing to go to achieve it, and what role does loneliness play in these life-altering decisions?