American Skin

Lincoln Jefferson is a recently divorced U.S. Marine, grappling with the emotional aftermath of his separation. This significant change in his life sets the stage for his determination to secure a better future for his son, Kajani.

In an effort to provide an improved educational environment for his son, Lincoln takes a job as a janitor at a predominantly white private school. This decision highlights his commitment to ensuring Kajani's success while navigating racial challenges.

While returning from a friend's house, Lincoln and Kajani are stopped by the police in an upscale neighborhood. The encounter turns tragic when Kajani is shot and killed by Officer Mike Randall, an event captured by body and dash cameras that sends shockwaves through their community.

The loss of Kajani leaves Lincoln devastated and changes the course of his life dramatically. A year later, as the Grand Jury's decision regarding Officer Randall approaches, tensions rise within the city, igniting feelings of injustice among the community.

Lincoln is approached by a documentary crew, led by student filmmaker Jordin King, just before the anticipated announcement about Officer Randall's fate. This introduces a new dynamic as they seek to document the fallout of tragedy and injustice.

When the Grand Jury declares Officer Randall not guilty, community unrest erupts. This controversial decision amplifies the pain and anger surrounding Kajani's death, prompting urgent calls for calm from both civic leaders and the community.

In the chaos following the verdict, a police captain reaches out to Kajani's mother, Tayana, urging her to publicly advocate for peace. Her televised call for calm resonates deeply, revealing the struggle within families affected by police violence.

Compelled by the injustices faced by his family, Lincoln decides to make a bold move by taking the police captain hostage. With a film crew documenting the event, he storms into the precinct, demanding justice for his son.

With the help of fellow veterans, Lincoln swiftly takes control of the police station, holding both officers and civilians hostage. His actions draw attention to systemic issues of race and justice, creating a platform for important discussions.

In a dramatic turn, Lincoln organizes an improvised mock trial inside the precinct, bringing together jurors from both the imprisoned officers and civilians present. This platform facilitates open discussions about racial inequality and the societal tensions permeating their community.

During the mock trial, Officer Randall confronts his actions and admits to experiencing racial bias. His testimony reveals the fears that informed his tragic choice, shedding light on the broader dialogue about policing and race relations.

After brief deliberation, the jury finds Officer Randall guilty, a verdict arrived at amidst heated discussions about morality and justice. This moment emboldens Lincoln, who is determined to take his own actions for vengeance.

In a shocking twist, Lincoln prepares to execute Officer Randall after the trial, believing in his own brand of justice. The tension builds as Randall speaks to his family, juxtaposing themes of fatherhood and loss.

As Lincoln exits the police station, a sniper's bullet strikes him down, ending his quest for personal justice. His tragic end leaves a haunting question about the cycle of violence and the complexities surrounding justice in their world.

In the aftermath of Lincoln's actions and tragic fate, varying perspectives unfold, reflecting on the nature of justice, race, and fatherhood. The film concludes with audiences considering the deeper societal implications of Lincoln’s journey and the loss experienced by so many.