This Is America (1977): cast, story & where to watch

1977 · Film · ★ 5.5

This Is America poster

Released in 1977, This Is America is a documentary film directed by Romano Vanderbes, running about 97 minutes. “An Outrageously Shocking Expose” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. Inspired by shock-documentaries like Mondo Cane, this film looks at the wilder side of life in America. Starting off with the bloodier side of the American car culture by showing a series of crashes at race events, the film then goes on to lesser-known sexual practices. Included among these is a porno movie award show, a nude beauty contest, a sex therapy session, and a detailed explanation of where dildos come from.

Who’s in it. This Is America stars Norman Rose as Narrator (voice), Anibal O. Lleras as Mercenary (uncredited), Fanne Foxe as Self - Eros 75 award winner (uncredited) and Ulli Lommel as Narrator (voice) (uncredited), among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 5.5/10, This Is America has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch This Is America page.

If you liked it. Fans of This Is America tend to enjoy One Direction: This Is Us, Burn the Stage: The Movie, BTS World Tour: Love Yourself - Japan Edition and Senna.

Frequently asked

Where can I watch This Is America (1977)?
Streaming, rental and purchase options for This Is America change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
Is This Is America worth watching?
This Is America holds an audience score of 5.5 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy documentary. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
Who stars in This Is America?
This Is America stars Norman Rose, Anibal O. Lleras, Fanne Foxe, Ulli Lommel and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
When was This Is America released?
This Is America was released in 1977, with a runtime of about 97 minutes.