Watch The Proper Care and Feeding of an American Messiah

"The Proper Care and Feeding of an American Messiah" is a thought-provoking independent film released in 2006 that takes a unique approach to exploring themes of faith, identity, and the human condition. Directed by Chris Hansen, this existential drama stars Dustin Olson in the lead role, with Joseph Frost and Ellen Halper supporting the narrative.

Set in a small American town, the film revolves around Oliver Porter (Dustin Olson), a young man who discovers he has a unique and unsettling ability: he believes he is a messiah. Convinced that he is Jesus Christ reincarnated, Oliver embarks on a challenging journey to fulfill his perceived destiny, determined to share his gospel with a world he believes is in desperate need of guidance.

As the story unfolds, the audience witnesses Oliver's interactions with the people of his community, who range from skeptical and dismissive to curious and devoutly supportive. Through his encounters, the film explores the intricacies of belief, faith, and the human desire for connection and meaning.

Joseph Frost portrays Stan, a childhood friend of Oliver's who becomes one of his most ardent disciples. Stan, struggling with personal challenges and dissatisfaction with his own life, latches onto Oliver's mission with fervor, finding solace and purpose in his friend's beliefs. Together, they navigate the complexities of faith and their evolving roles in this spiritual journey.

Meanwhile, Ellen Halper delivers a captivating performance as Helen, Oliver's love interest. Her pragmatic and rational approach to life forces Oliver to confront the validity of his claims, challenging his preconceptions and forcing him to reevaluate his views. As an outsider to his messianic narrative, Helen adds an interesting perspective to the story, provoking introspection and raising questions about the nature of belief and the complexities of relationships.

The cinematography of "The Proper Care and Feeding of an American Messiah" contributes to the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of the film. With its subdued colors and intimate framing, the visuals evoke a sense of contemplation and introspection, mirroring the philosophical nature of the narrative.

Furthermore, the film's pacing allows for moments of stillness and reflection, giving viewers time to delve into the existential dilemmas presented by Oliver's journey. The script, penned by Chris Hansen, is rich in metaphors and philosophical musings, encouraging audiences to ponder questions of spirituality, purpose, and the inherent need for human connection.

"The Proper Care and Feeding of an American Messiah" is a thoughtfully crafted film that offers an exploration of belief systems, identity, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. As Oliver wrestles with his role as a potential savior, the audience is invited to reflect on their own beliefs, raising profound questions about the human condition and the nature of faith.

While this independent gem may not have garnered widespread attention upon release, its thought-provoking themes and memorable performances make it a captivating watch for those in search of a profoundly philosophical cinematic experience. "The Proper Care and Feeding of an American Messiah" is a poignant and introspective drama that challenges viewers to contemplate the boundaries between faith and reality, leaving a lasting impression long after the credits roll.

The Proper Care and Feeding of an American Messiah is a 2006 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.