There have been great documentaries made about Hurricane Katrina, but in the 14 years since, there has yet to be a definitive narrative film about the subject. Many saw the devastation of Katrina in the news: the breakdown of government, devastated citizens doing what they could to survive. Yet, the media’s portrayal of African-Americans elicited fear, not sympathy; ignorance, not care. A black man was ”looting,” while a white man was “finding bread.”

Stories of everyday heroes of color, like John, never became a part of the conversation, let alone the big screen. Yet, these stories that are desperately needed to empower communities, especially those of color and our youth. The magnitude of John’s full story goes beyond fiction and projects a microcosm of important global messages. The themes of humanity, racial reconciliation, valor, and self-sacrifice make this story so powerful and gives it universal social relevance. 

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While Hurricane Katrina activated the soldier in Keller, it also left him with another layer of PTSD that no label of hero can ever truly erase. It was a sacrifice he had to take and one he doesn’t regret, as he followed the military code of conduct to save the people trapped at the American Can, and to leave no man behind.

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This is a story of the unbreakable human spirit. A story that must be seen to be believed. A story that will ignite hope and unite hearts. A story of a real African-American hero. This is The American Can.