American Teen follows five Indiana teenagers through their senior year of high school. Rather than an unembellished portrait, however, it feels as manufactured as an episode of reality television. Its subjects are far too aware of the film that surrounds them. They’re not allowing a glimpse into their lives; they’re putting on a show. The reality of reality TV makes me wonder if unvarnished documentaries are possible anymore in this country. Performing – for “American Idol,” for “The Bachelorette,” for YouTube – has become such an integral part of the American experience that people no longer seem capable of appearing authentic while on camera.
