In a shocking plot twist that could have been penned by himself, Cord Jefferson's debut directorial venture 'American Fiction' has snatched the much-coveted People's Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival (Tiff), raising a whirlwind of Oscar buzz. An underdog in the film arena, Jefferson, hitherto a distinguished TV writer for blue-chip shows like 'Watchmen' and 'Succession,' proved that his talent transcends the small screen. Critics have hailed this surprise victory as a testament to the universal appeal of disillusioned academicians and biting satire. Drawing on his overabundant well of anecdotal experience, having attended countless industry cocktail affairs and hob-knobbed with self-absorbed literati, Jefferson brings to the screen an adaptation of Percival Everett's novel, 'Erasure'. The film brilliantly traces the journey of a disenchanted author, portrayed by industry veteran Jeffery Wright, who spurns the publishing industry’s myopic view of “black books.” Expressing sheer disbelief at his Toronto win, Jefferson confessed, "I was prepared for polite clapping or a lethargic 'meh.' But this? This is like getting a standing ovation from literary snobs. Where did I go wrong?" Meanwhile, Wright, in a beautiful homage to his on-screen persona, grumbled about the limitations of expectations. "I've played convincing roles as a Shaft, a Bond tech geek, and even a hungry dinosaur hunter,” he said, “But pour out my soul as a peeved and underappreciated author and suddenly, they're throwing awards at me. Is this some kind of twisted satire of real life?" American Fiction now stands a good chance of entering the hallowed pantheon of 'Best Picture' contenders at the upcoming Academy Awards. The Oscar situation room, usually a serene space with statuettes waiting to be engraved, is now buzzing with the name 'Jefferson' and 'American Fiction.' What was once dismissed as "too sarcastic to be substantial," has become a potential mantle-piece magnet. While critics are furiously revising their Oscar checklists, the followers of Cord Jefferson, equipped with popcorn and sparkling wit, are basking in the bewilderment including a small band of disillusioned academics who have found a new lease of life, thanks ironically, to the industry they once execrated. As Oscar buzz gets louder, one wonders if Cord Jefferson missed something in his satirical interpretation of the industry - the sweet, bewildering taste of surprise success! Who knew that ‘American Fiction’ would extend beyond the pages of the book, spill over onto celluloid, and now may just sweep the Academy off its feet!