the american dream interrupted
A documentary film in the making.
Labeled as America’s worst nightmare, a Maryland family fights to overcome a broken immigration system in pursuit of the American Dream.
A true story of love, faith, and resilience inside one of the nation’s most contentious policy battles.
synopsis
The American Dream Interrupted is a powerful documentary that follows a Maryland family living in the shadows of America’s immigration system. Ivania, a U.S. citizen, and her husband Teito, who is undocumented, have been married for over 11 years—raising three children, building a life, and living with the constant threat of separation.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, they were denied emergency relief—not because of income, but because of Teito’s immigration status. A landmark MALDEF lawsuit successfully challenged that injustice, helping thousands of mixed-status families, including theirs, receive the support they needed.
Now, after more than a decade of marriage, they finally have the opportunity to apply for Teito’s permanent residency. But because of a 10-year reentry bar triggered years ago, Teito must leave the country and return to Honduras to complete the process—a journey filled with risk, uncertainty, and the possibility that he may not be allowed to return.
His departure is set to happen just months before the 2024 presidential election, raising fears that a new administration could make reunification impossible.
Teito isn’t just a father and husband—he’s a man of deep faith, on the verge of being ordained as a pastor. He believes he’s called to serve his community in the U.S., a calling now in jeopardy.
Through home footage, spiritual reflections, courtroom scenes, and church gatherings, The American Dream Interrupted offers an intimate portrait of a family whose love and purpose endure, even when the law tries to tear them apart.
Director’s Statement
I’ve known Ivania for years, but I didn’t know her full story until I overheard that she had been featured in the news. She told me her family was part of a lawsuit after being denied COVID-19 relief—simply because her husband, Teito, is undocumented.
In 2024, reporters reached out again when a bill to help mixed-status families gain citizenship was blocked. That moment pushed Ivania to speak out. She told me how ashamed she once felt, but how she could no longer live in the shadows.
When I met Teito, I saw a man of humility and purpose. He believes God has called him to serve in this country and is now preparing to become a pastor. His faith and courage deeply moved me.
I’m making this film because I’m tired of the harmful stereotypes that portray Latino immigrants as threats. The Amador family is the opposite: they homeschool their children, serve their community, and mentor local youth. They represent the kind of family that strengthens this country.
I also want to spotlight the legal advocates and activists fighting to restore dignity for families like theirs. This story is about faith, injustice, and the quiet strength of those who refuse to give up hope.
– Amelia Ross, Director
themes
Family Separation
The emotional and legal cost of a system that keeps families apart
Faith and Calling
How spiritual conviction gives strength and purpose during uncertainty
Immigration Policy & Injustice
Highlighting the human toll of the 10-year bar, 287(g), and blocked reform
Media Stereotypes
Confronting the harmful narratives that paint Latino immigrants as threats
Resilience & Resistance
A family refusing to live in the shadows—and finding their voice
Advocacy & Legal Action
The impact of MALDEF, community organizers, and grassroots resistance
Visual Style & Tone
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Cinematic and Intimate
Handheld, vérité-style footage that captures raw, emotional moments in real time
Warm & Honest Color Palette
Earthy tones, natural lighting, and golden-hour warmth to reflect both vulnerability and hope
Juxtaposition of Settings
From quiet home interiors and church pews to noisy protests and courtrooms
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Original Score blending acoustic, orchestral, and Latin-inspired sounds
Original Song Performance
An original track will be written and performed by Amelia Ross and Steve Obi, adding emotional weight and spiritual dimension to the film's climax or resolution
Naturalistic Sound Design
Layered with ambient home life, church gatherings, street chants, and courtroom silence
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Personal Testimonies
The film is grounded in Ivania and Teito’s voices as they narrate their journey
Expert Perspectives
Immigration lawyers, policy experts, and community advocates will provide context, explain legal complexities (like the 10-year bar and 287(g)), and elevate the urgency of reform
Spiritual Reflections
Scripture, prayers, and pastoral moments underscore the family’s faith and calling
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Empathetic. Urgent. Hopeful.
The film is emotional without being sensational, grounded in both pain and purpose.
Who This Film is For
Primary Audiences
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Those directly impacted by U.S. immigration laws will see their truth reflected and their voices amplified.
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Churches, pastors, and believers who are grappling with how faith, justice, and immigration intersect.
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Activists, lawyers, and organizers working toward immigrant rights, policy change, and systemic reform.
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College classrooms studying immigration, social justice, family studies, and American policy.
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Viewers drawn to personal, purpose-driven storytelling with emotional depth and political relevance.
Partnerships & Support
Status: In production
Goal: Finish by June 2026
Currently fundraising to complete filming and editing.
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