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I have to admit that I am usually hesitant about movies that happen to be written by, directed by and starring the one and same person, as such movies usually tend to be questionable affairs. But I still opted to watch the 2024 movie "American Trash", as I had the opportunity to do so here in 2025.

As it turned out, this was apparently Robert LaSardo's directorial debut, and he actually did it quite nicely. The storyline had some interesting and good aspects to it, but also some less so aspects. I liked the way the story was told, and it felt like it was characters you could relate to in some way, so the character gallery had some depth and flavor to it.

The movie did suffer somewhat from a slow pacing, and I most definitely did not like the way that Charles Manson was glorified and put on a pedestal, as was the case in the movie. That left a foul taste in my mouth.

The acting performances in "American Trash" were good, and I was surprised with the amount of familiar faces on the cast list, with the likes of Robert LaSardo, Costas Mandylor, Tom Sizemore and Elissa Dowling.

Certainly a watchable movie and an interesting enough movie, though hardly a movie that warrants more than a single viewing, as it just doesn't have the layers for more than one viewing.

My rating of writer and director Robert LaSardo's 2024 movie lands on a five out of ten stars.

Robert LaSardo not only delivered an exceptional performance but as a storyteller, he knocked it out the park! They don't make movies like this anymore and the tragic story he has written resonates on a very deep level. This is a love story and delves deep into humanity, our environment and the psychology of ptsd. The cast did a great job supporting this story and the production value is very high considering the low budget this film had. The score is haunting and brings you back to a time long ago. If you haven't seen this film you should, it's an emotional ride that will leave you stunned. I adored this film and I highly recommend it!

If you want a film that is bathed in placid security and of a humble platter of warm milk and cookies, then this ain't it. But, if you want a film that is a full blast to your senses, "American Trash" is it.

From that first roll of moving image and a quote by someone the world thinks they know, but, only in works of slavishly chic venerated villainy; "American Trash" begins. A word said, a phrase spoken; something that sets off a spark in the human mind of past, of present, of future's visualization.

Cave of contemplation was where a man and woman met. For what some see through the eyes of the bourgeoisie as being evil, others contend with the complex sanctity of what is sacred. A duo of souls finding commonality in a way of spirit is at the heart of this film.

He is Milles. She is Melissa.

Milles is a man haunted and daunted by all which his past have shackled him to, as being a veteran clasped in the grips of PTSD. Melissa is a woman of independent heart and optimistic overture. This is their story. Their life together is good. In fact, there happens to be a delightful act of domesticity that this couple have within their world together. Melissa doing something as over-lookable as watering plants is truly a sweet touch. Milles truly appreciates her to his core and for his care. Melissa is the embodiment of a revival to Milles' dormant heart.

Melissa is played by Lorelei Linklater, who brings an effervescent ray of exuberance into the dimness of the lead character's existence.

She is fulfillment of the void of vanishing nightmares that have transformed into dreams of possibilities of their future moments of being together. She is a breath of clean air in an existence of a chaotic and environmentally corroded society around them.

Boom! Without fanfare - Melissa is no more. Milles' physical manifestation of loss is devastating to watch. Heartbreak and heartache overwhelms him. With the captivating eye and vision of Robert LaSardo at the helm of this film, he takes the viewer on a journey of devastation.

"American Trash" deftly explores the dimensions of loss.

Loss of love. Loss of security. Loss of faith. Loss of hope. Loss of sanity.

A fact of reality brings a man that anyone would think is strong beyond measure to his knees, comes when Melissa's sister, Mandy (played by Gigi Gustin) and Milles meet for the first time. The location and circumstance of their connecting truly are like a sledgehammer to the base of his spine, taking him off balance.

In a scene with Melissa's parents, that arctic backhand of being discarded from the life Milles had crafted with Melissa becomes as stark as the words spoken and attitude aimed at him.

Without dulcet Melissa, this man who had climbed out from the well of hellish history suddenly was on the precipice of falling back down into that dark abyss.

He was who she needed and she was who he needed. As for anyone from the outside of their relationship knowing what they truly found in one another was insignificant. Melissa and Milles found each other, by bond of a crystallization of a pureness of humanity; no matter what outsiders may have thought of them. Happiness, indeed; or just a span of time bringing tranquility to a pair of lonely hearts was what was revealed to each of them.

There is a calming narrative that both sisters have upon the life of Milles, as that element of respect for things beyond man-made edifices brings home an underlying message of the will of the existence of the outdoors. It's something which both Melissa and Mandy have imparted to the life of this war-weary veteran of bruised nerves and frustrated lack of recognition.

In a world where a person thinks they can go at it alone; there is always a need for a tribe, or some sort of semblance of a familial frequency. You know, a smattering of souls that vibe on a coordinated wavelength. It can be those whom we as human beings may think we are opposite of; yet, in the fiber of our self have that certain actualization of knowing we are not as different as society may think they cleave us into different silos of acceptability.

For the forgotten man, Milles - Melissa is the angel of destiny. Even from that tender touch of Melissa's hand onto Milles' cheek at the cave where first met, the die was cast. For both, there was no turning back on their journey as one.

Surveillance of cameras, but lack of sight in seeing the person standing right before you is the way it is. Hearts and prayers. Prayers and hearts. It's the mumbo-jumbo of bureaucracy that envelope layers of this society. Milles is a particulate of dust, ignored and eviscerated beneath the bureaucratic radar.

"American Trash" is an anthem for the forgotten man. Forgotten of hope, society, care, history, respect, humanity, wisdom, service. Yet, when the character of Detective Anderson (played by Costas Mandylor) says the quartet of following words to Milles: "I appreciate your service"; that look on Robert LaSardo's face is that of a man thinking if one truly appreciated their military service to this country, they would be of service to him in his time of needing information on the snuffing out of a gentle soul.

There is that moment that comes in "American Trash", which seals Milles' fate. Hate blinds. Love visualizes.

American Trash is a powerful parable that doesn't preach, but only unveils the varied stages of hypocrisy which lie just beneath the surface of society pretending to be one thing; but in actuality being cradled in capes of callousness.

When a man has nothing...to lose...to gain - be it love, be it pain; fate is a decision he controls without waiver or weakened thought. Milles makes his, as this tale culminates in the nest of serenity he shared with a hopeful Melissa.

Milles' only true friend is a man of Chakra healing named Tai (portrayed by Rich R. Rendon), whom has a mellow effect on the lead character due to his shared combat history and philosophic balance. As both men understand one another on a different plateau of relating to how the other reacts or feels to any situation faced; there is no judgment transferred between them.

Psychedelic angel in the form of Charles, played with sobering effect by Mark Thompson sits with Milles as he awaits those grains of sand wind down in the hourglass.

In the film's final scene, there is a sense of homecoming to a peace that could only be absorbed by a soul whose known the thorns of sacrifice and tribulations by being the bastardized outcast in the path of disillusionment, discord and disregard. Robert LaSardo's character of Milles in "American Trash" is that discarded man who is ignored by society, and yet needed as the punching bag and fodder for all that is seen as being not worthy of the respect allotted by the mythology of security, sanity, and all which is considered upright.

As the credits roll, it is wonderful to see Robert LaSardo's dedication to another great actor, Tom Sizemore; in one of his last performances as Detective Kelly.

"American Trash" is a film that will stick in the memory of anyone who is fortunate enough to heed the message it delivers. I am looking forward to seeing what's next from the artistic acting and directing chops of the phenomenal Robert LaSardo.

Produced by actor-director LaSardo, Josh Webber and Diana Carter, this film is of high caliber and quality of message and pace. With original score by Anthony Espina and music by Paul Watkins and Brooks Poston, there are elements of folk and contemporary atmospherics.

Iconography of this film cannot be underrated, as it elevates the beauty of all which the natural world has to offer. Shots of the horizon celebrating the Pacific Ocean are one of the great aspects of "American Trash", from the footage of nature's vastness and revealing grace for the eye to behold. Director of photography Mike Le has done some wonderful work on this film.

Running a little under two hours, "American Trash" is a satisfying sojourn through the characters and scenic vistas of Los Angeles, Venice and Malibu.

Message of morning's mourn to Mother Earth! Tempered and tender! Provocative and poignant! Ballsy and brash! This is Robert LaSardo's "American Trash".

This film is absolutely something else in the best way. It is beyond well done. I'm absolutely blown away. I haven't cried this many times during a film in a really long time. This hit home with me so hard it's a bit crazy. This is his first dramatic Opus as director and actor & writing etc. The nuances and steady pacing of all of it was incredible. It's starts as if it's a slow burn and you really feel everything. I'm gonna have to do a whole review on this honestly. There's so much more to talk about! The angles, cinematography, editing, in the relationships between the characters. All so dynamic and different. You really accomplished a massive milestone Robert LaSardo! I've always enjoyed your on screen presence but I really can't wait to see more sides of you! Something really interesting as well is the steady energy of this film. And great supporting cast! It's very rich in substance and you portray the feelings of flashbacks & invasive thoughts & extreme emotions so on point! Another palpable factor is the portrayal of frustration like as he spoke to the cop about the investigation at the window and he was being a dick. I can totally relate. Also a huge accomplishment is the underlying Manson story that is presented in a very unique and approachable way. Which led to Lasardo's podcast with Reaper deep diving into it. Thank you for giving this your heart and soul! And thank you for letting scenes breathe. Not a lot of people doing that correctly in film today. So sick of fast cuts.

Full discolure, i have met and spent time on the horror convention scene with the director Robert.

That being said , i watched his film to be supportive and was genuinely impressed with his original story and overall with his film.

Its indie made well, wonderfully casted with some you will know and others youll want to watch again. Its gritty and effective without using budget constraints to make it so.

Highly recommend you giving this film a watch, not just to be entertained but because its new and different amidst the constant trailer of repetitive super hero movies that seem to be never ending. Im looking forward to what robert does next , hipefully its behind the camera as well as in front!

I wasn't sure if I was sold on the plot going in, but the opening scenes really draw you into his world. You become very invested in this movie in a very short period. It really is kind of a wild ride. Like others have said, it's grittyThe cinematography was on point. The acting was actually very good. The story line wasn't muddled. More often than not, this isn't the case with indie flicks. I really think people will enjoy this hidden gem. I really think this shows another side of Robert. He has played many different characters. Wearing many different hats for this film shows just how talented and driven he is! Well done!!

American Trash plummets us back to earth in this realistic example of the human condition.

Facing the reality of the world around us can leave a bad taste in our mouths, we tend to turn a blind eye to the issues in effort to escape our condition.

This film forces us to confront themes of love, loss, and prejudice. I also find it intriguing to challenge the perspective on Charles Manson and the intent of his messages. What is good and evil? Can a not so good person still have a valid message?

I enjoyed this film and found it entertaining and meaningful. A refreshing artistic piece by Robert Lasardo.

American Trash isn't just a film-it's an experience. Robert LaSardo delivers a magnetic performance, fusing grit, vulnerability, and a haunting realism that only he can bring to the screen. With his trademark intensity, LaSardo leads us through a dark, beautifully broken world where redemption and ruin collide.

Visually raw and emotionally charged, American Trash is a fearless exploration of identity, trauma, and the human need for connection. The storytelling is unapologetic, the characters are deeply layered, and every scene crackles with authenticity.

LaSardo's unique voice as both actor and artist shines through, making American Trash not just a film, but a bold statement. It's a reminder that even in the dirtiest corners of humanity, there's a flicker of truth worth fighting for.

A must-watch for anyone who appreciates cinema that dares to be different.

This movie is a powerful social commentary movie that longtime Hollywood veteran Robert LaSardo dives into society of 2024 Los Angeles. LaSardo really dives deep into so many issues that plague, society in big cities and in this case specifically Los Angeles.

The writing is really great as well as the character development. There are very many layers to this film that you need to really sit back and digest after watching. This is definitely a film. You might need to watch a few times.

Congratulations to Robert LaSardo and his team and making this thought provoking and original art piece that brings back classic cinema vibes.

I really like this movie. It is a very good movie. It is a very captivating movie. I have watched this movie twice now. I would watch it a lot more if it was on a streaming app. I love Robert LaSardo. He's a great actor and great director. This is a very emotional movie. I highly recommend everyone check it out and at least watch it once. This movie shows how cruel the world can be and how emotional we can get from it. It's sad that this kind of stuff really happens in today's society. It also shows how someone suffers from ptsd. I give it eight stars. Hopefully a lot more people will check it out.

Honestly American trash was one of the most heartbreakingly beautiful films I've seen this year. It was beautifully written and directed and shot. The cast did an amazing job bringing this story to life and making the audience connect with the characters on an emotional level. Shouts out Robert LaSardo for a beautiful film, hopefully many more to come. Your talent and dedication is to be admired and it is widely appreciated in the industry. Not many films can encompass the true essence of genuine love and heartbreak but this film does this effortlessly. I highly recommend this movie not only because of the extreme talent from the actors, but because of the beautiful and unique storyline. The quality of the shots are amazing. This movie is sure to tear at your heartstrings.

As someone who is into true crime/Charlie Manson this movie is for you. When Melissa said about feeling her whole life like a weight was just pushing her down and she had to always fight to stand up... that was really good writing because that's how my mental illness has always made me feel. The writing/characters are so relatable to me period. I really liked it, my Mama did too. I liked all the little things like the names that connect to Charlie too. Just down right a really good movie with a respectful view of Charlie for the reasons so many of us like him that most don't understand... he used that to put an important message in there about the environment. He also doesn't glorify the violence that goes along with Charlie and I really respect that about the film too.

Robert LaSardo delivered an outstanding performance as Milles. American Trash is a drama, filled with love, compassion, and a willingness to fight for what is yours. This movie also portrays the infamous Spahn Ranch. As a PTSD survivor, LaSardo fights for what is his. He experiences love, pain and the hurt of losing someone. I have seen this movie several times and each time I see something new. I highly recommend this drama based movie. LaSardo is an amazing, talented actor who puts his whole heart into this film. When I watch this I feel like I am actually there, at the scene. American Trash is the best drama filled movie I have seen.

This film is an emotional rollercoaster that'll leave you breathless! The dialogue, oh the dialogue! As a writer, I was in absolute awe. It's some of the most captivating, soul-stirring conversation I've ever heard in a movie, and I'll shout that from the rooftops!

By the end, I was a blubbering mess - and trust me, that doesn't happen often. I can't recommend this masterpiece enough! I'm already itching to watch it again and relive all those powerful emotions!

The story of "American Trash" is compelling and brilliantly executed. The performances are on point, showcasing the talent of every actor involved. Well done!

The story involves a veteran with ptsd that has been trying to cope since his time in service, he meets a girl which quickly becomes what he feels is his other half, a tragic incident happens to her leaving the man in a peril state.

Robert LaSardo takes a different path in a more dramatic approach showing his character is going through more than what is met. The environment is very well shot heightening the mood and setting for the characters, very well shot camera work and cinematography. The cast is well placed for such a dire situation when it primarily focus on one character.

Robert's character goes through various feelings such as connecting,spirituality, seeking an inner sanctum of self salvation, carrying a burden and not when or how to rid of it even when you try to get the right support.

It can also teach us that even a consequence needs to be paid rather than learning to accept and improve on self character. Sometimes a painters self aggression needs to use the brush and paint his reflection in a different perspective, in a different form. Fans of Robert LaSardo's work will see a deeper side of his character and notice that everyone can become their worst enemy, everyone can become the monster they didn't know could be, everyone can repent and find the light of solitude.

It is worth watching to feel and to exercise the meaning of "righteousness " this feeling I would call a two sided shade of grey that anyone can relate to.

"American Trash," directed by Robert LaSardo and released in 2024, is a gritty drama based in LA that explores the lives of individuals struggling to make sense of their existence amid societal decay.

The film follows a diverse ensemble of characters as they navigate personal and collective crises, reflecting broader themes of disenchantment, societal decay, and survival. LaSardo's direction brings an intense, almost visceral quality to the narrative, highlighting the stark realities of the characters' lives.

The performances in "American Trash" are a strong point, with the cast delivering deeply emotional and authentic portrayals. LaSardo delivers a deeply moving and nuanced portrayal of a character grappling with PTSD from his military days and loss while still holding on to the capacity for love.. He is coming to terms with the reality that LA is no longer the place he once loved- increasing crime rates, loss of social cohesion, and economic instability. From the opening scene, Lasardo captures the emotional complexity of his role with remarkable sensitivity and authenticity.

The actor's depiction of PTSD is both raw and respectful, avoiding sensationalism while conveying the profound impact of trauma on the character's psyche. Every twitch, pause, and moment of hesitation is laden with the weight of past suffering, creating a portrait of vulnerability that is both heartbreaking and profoundly human.

Gigi Gustin delivers a compelling and emotionally charged portrayal of a distraught yet loving character. Her raw, heartfelt performance captures the character's emotional turmoil with impressive authenticity. The nuanced expression of both vulnerability and affection adds depth to the role, making the character's struggles and devotion resonate deeply with the audience.

Visually, the film adopts a gritty, documentary-like aesthetic that reinforces its themes of urban decay, real-world issues, and existential struggle. The color grading enhances the overall atmosphere, contributing to the film's immersive experience.

Despite the character's grief, Lasardo infuses moments of warmth and tenderness, showcasing the enduring capacity for love amid overwhelming circumstances.

While "American Trash" may not offer a conventional narrative or resolution, its unvarnished portrayal of contemporary issues makes it a significant and thought-provoking piece. Those who appreciate a raw, hard-hitting, character-driven story will find it a powerful experience.

Just finished watching "American Trash", really great gritty feeling movie, showing the underbelly of Los Angeles. Great Performances all the way around! Robert LaSardo excellent job in Directing this Film!! You should be very proud of your work!! The ending sequence wtih Robert LaSardo, Costas Mandylor and Chance Wilder Onody so freaking intense!! I had to rewind it and watch a number of times as it was that gripping, compelling and powerful!! This movie really delivers in substance and felling!! "American Trash" is a must see, put it on your to do list and get her down, you will not be disappointed!!

"American Trash," directed by and starring Robert LaSardo, is a compelling addition to the genre of gritty urban dramas. LaSardo, known for his intense character portrayals, steps into the director's chair with confidence, delivering a film that's both visually engaging and emotionally resonant. The story follows a war veteran grappling with PTSD, finding solace in the embrace of a vibrant environmentalist. Together, they navigate the stark landscapes of Venice, California, in a narrative that's as much about personal redemption as it is about romantic entanglement.

What stands out in "American Trash" is LaSardo's ability to craft a character that's deeply flawed yet profoundly human. His performance, complemented by a strong supporting cast including Lorelei Linklater and the late Tom Sizemore, adds layers to a script that explores themes of love, loss, and the quest for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world. The film's aesthetic, with its 1960s color palette and evocative score, further enhances the atmospheric storytelling.

Critically, "American Trash" has been well-received, with viewers and critics alike praising LaSardo's dual role as director and lead actor. The film not only showcases his dramatic range but also his skill in guiding a narrative that's both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking. If you're in the mood for a film that challenges the norm with its raw depiction of life's underbelly while still offering moments of genuine connection and beauty, "American Trash" is definitely worth watching. It's a movie that lingers with you, prompting reflection on the human condition long after the credits roll.

"American Trash" It's Love at first sight in the heart ...It is a tsunami of love, strength, and hope, overwhelming like no other, a torrent of love and strength, of hope...it is a hurricane of humanity and a real sun that hits us full in the face, full in the heart, right down to our guts, which makes us feel what a heart that beats, a mind that thinks, a world that has a soul really is... Fruit of the most beautiful mind, a treasure of soul, sacred precious, the most overwhelming and profound being, solar that this world has, a being born with art and humanity in every pore of what he is, the most true and respectful being, of infinite intelligence and knowledge like his talents to take your breath away... like a miracle in this world like an angel ,a real sun a real solar being that exists exists in this world, no other being than him, the irreplaceable *Robert Lasardo *could have created such a Jewel.... the most beautiful film ever created, thought and directed to this day. Because it is filled with what is missing today in this world, in what surrounds us. A true masterpiece of emotions, a diamond filled with true values, a film like a world filled with humanity. This pure and sublime masterpiece, born from the most talented artist who exists but above all an incredible being, Robert Lasardo. To this day, there are no words strong enough to speak of this being and his film that he created and which he made into a true Diamond of emotions. Robert Lasardo is definitely the most true and wonderful being, sacred and solar spirit, like a sun, human more human than humanity itself, and the most sublime and profound of souls that exists in this world. And American Trash is exactly that... it's a hurricane of emotions, it's a torrent of love, it's the world with humanity and values, everything that emerges from it is intense, deep solar. This film is overwhelming, of absolute beauty and intensity... it amazes our eyes but not only that, it's stronger than that... it's a thunderbolt in our hearts, it pierces us, upsets us, takes us deep inside us.... it speaks to our minds, to our consciences, to our hearts... it gives back to this world all the humanity, the soul, the hope, the love, the strength, which it lacks... it is for me the most sublime and profound human film created. This film is a real gift for everyone, it's a sun for the eyes and hearts of the whole world. And every detail, every piece of music, everything in this film has a meaning and was made with incredible talent. When the master of cinema thinks, creates, realizes, he is a sun for the world, an actor and an incomparable, irreplaceable being he is infinitely talented... and he shows the whole world the extent of his talents...this being is made to create, realize he does not create magic he is magic. This film created by the most beautiful and talented being that exists, is of infinite beauty. Watching American Trash is being transported to paradise. It gives us so many emotions and happiness. This film and the one who created it do not deserve 10 in score but it deserves 100,1000...the infinity and the best.

Thank you for this true gift, for this true sun that illuminates the eyes of the whole world with all the beauty and humanity that it is.

When the most beautiful mind that exists gives life to a sun the world can finally warm up and wrap itself in all the beauty that it is.

Love is the Cure...Let your souls shine.... American Trash by the irreplaceable Robert Lasardo.

Thank you for this film which will mark us forever so much it is sublime and profound.

A pure sun for the whole world , a tsunami of love and humanity a world with a soul, a breath and hope.

American Trash viewers will be treated to an original story and fine performances! Most viewers will recognize Tom Sizemore, Lorelei Linklater, and Costas Mandylor, but much of this film is carried by LaSardo, Rich Rendon, and Gigi Guston. Personally, I was floored by the scenes with Gigi Guston and LaSardo as they were exceptional!

Additionally, LaSardo's film deserves credit for addressing Post-traumatic stress disorder among veterans. Members of the armed forces will not react the same way in many social situations and that creates tension that escalates throughout this compelling narrative.

I look forward to more films where LaSardo is in charge of the proceedings.

We are all connected, every one of us - and this film shows us that throughout the story. Grief and stress change us from the inside out, and in American Trash we see this with Milles and grow to understand his psyche and the massive love hidden deep down inside, especially for Melissa.

So much of life is out of our control, but love wins. We make choices every day and these choices shape our lives and the lives of our loved ones. Both fear and love battle it out in this story and the moments captured are deep and true.

Robert, keep directing and writing. It was an honor being a part of this film.

I had seen the trailer for this and was very excited to finally watch it. You know how some trailers give all the best parts away and take from the whole experience? That wasnt true here.

Im not going to give anything away here that the trailer hasnt already touched on. When Milles loses his girlfriend, his grief tore my heart out. It made me feel the loss of my dad, my sister, everyone i ever lost. From that moment on, i wanted the best for him.

Its an intense film and has some of the best dialogue i've ever heard in a film and i will stand by that. As a writer, that was a huge treat for me. I cried at the end. I dont do that often. I highly recommend and will watch again.

Robert LaSardo is not only an amazing dramatic actor, he shows us his full chops by not only writing and directing American Trash, he also plays the lead.

Robert has created a heartfelt saga that pulls at your emotions and directly hits at anyone who has served this country in uniform.

This story will follow the main protagonist (Robert) through the gritty sides of Los Angeles and Venice Beach on his quest for answers to his personal tragedy.

It follows his journey through love, loss, grief, and finally retribution climaxing to a heartfelt conclusion.

I highly recommend this film to everyone. Please enjoy it and Robert, keep them coming.

My husband and I finally got a chance to watch "American Trash" on Amazon Prime and we loved it! Robert LaSardo is a U. S. Navy Veteran and wrote and directed the unique story, which brings insight into the suffering that PTSD inflicts on soldiers. The production value was excellent, with the realistic and gritty cinematography adding to the themes of social decay and too little empathy for our Veterans. The acting by the entire cast was top notch throughout. Robert LaSardo, Costas Mandylor, and Tom Sizemore show why they are stars, as their charismatic presence just jumps off the screen. Gigi Gustin gave a beautiful performance, and I was so happy that Tom Sizemore was at the top of his acting game in one of his last roles! This is a must see and congratulations to Robert LaSardo and producer Diana Carter!!! 💖💖💖