Mister America

In the 2019 comedy Mister America, directed by Eric Notarnicola and featuring the unique comedic stylings of Tim Heidecker, we are thrust into the absurd world of a man who finds himself embroiled in a wild political campaign. After narrowly escaping a murder charge related to selling faulty e-cigarettes at an EDM festival, Heidecker’s character, who embodies a mix of charm and incompetence, decides to challenge the San Bernardino District Attorney in an effort to clear his name and seek redemption. His campaign, rife with misguided enthusiasm and a complete lack of political experience, serves as a satirical critique of the often chaotic intersection between personal ambition and public service.

Mister America cleverly explores themes of celebrity culture, the fragility of public perception, and the absurdity of modern politics. As Heidecker navigates the murky waters of his campaign, viewers are treated to a hilarious and cringeworthy spectacle of his attempts to gain traction among voters. His earnestness, despite his glaring unpreparedness, creates a compelling tension that highlights the ridiculousness of contemporary electoral politics. With its deadpan humor and sharp commentary, this film invites audiences to reflect on the nature of trust in leadership and the lengths to which one might go to reinvent themselves, even when the odds are hilariously stacked against them.