Lancaster filmmakers Saritha Rothermel and Sam Soliman have traveled across the country screening their new documentary film, “Almost American”. Now they will be sharing the film in their hometown.
The project tells the personal story of Sam Soliman, who is also the co-director of the film. Sam is one of over half a million DACA recipients who live in limbo, dependent on a temporary status renewed every two years. He moved to Lancaster when he was only one year old and has lived in Lancaster ever since. Then in 2025, his mother was suddenly deported to the Philippines by ICE, and Sam had to confront his own precarious reality through a new lens.
I was given access to watch the documentary ahead of the Lancaster screenings, and was deeply moved by the film. The short documentary can only tell part of the story, but the team zeroed in on the heart of the matter. They peeled back the layers of what is often just a theoretical and hot-button political issue and told the authentic and at times heartbreaking story of a human being who, because of today’s immigration policies, does not have a place to call home.
This personal project required a lot of trust and vulnerability that you can’t manufacture. If you see the film, you will understand why. Sam showed a great deal of courage by being willing to tell his story, in hopes that he can improve the lives of others. Because of the nature of the film, Saritha told me that the local team became very close. At its core, the project is about neighbors who want to help their neighbors.
When asked what she hopes this film will accomplish, Saritha said, “We hope this film will spark hard conversations about who belongs in our country and what we can do to fix our broken immigration system. Call your representatives about the DREAM Act!”
The film’s co-directors are both Lancaster locals. Saritha Rothermel is a Thai-American filmmaker and licensed professional counselor. The film marks her directorial debut. Sam Soliman is both the subject of the documentary and the co-director. He is also a impact driven photographer, director, and mental health advocate. In addition, many other Lancaster residents were part of the making of the film including Michael Rothermel (editor), Ellie Green (composer) and Mark Yang (camera operator).
Upcoming Local Screenings
West Art
- 818 Buchanan Ave. Lancaster, PA
- Sunday, September 20
- 2:00 PM
West Shore Theater
- 317 Bridge St. New Cumberland, PA
- Monday, September 28
- 6:30 PM
Human Migration Film Festival
- 825 Buchanan Ave. Lancaster, PA
- Thursday, November 12
- 7:30 PM
Red Rose Film Festival
- November 12-14
The Row House Forum
- 1125 Columbia Ave. Lancaster, PA
- Monday, November 30
- 6:30 PM
For the most up to date screening times and information, visit https://www.chaiyo.studio/almost-american