America tells the story of Dr. Maureen Brennan (Rosie O’Donnell), a psychiatrist at a youth treatment center, encounters her newest patient, a 16-year-old biracial boy named America. Through their sessions, Dr. Brennan helps America come to terms with his roller-coaster life, which began when he was taken by authorities from his crack-addicted mother and placed into foster care as an infant. In this emotional story, Dr. Brennan works to help him open up about his painful past and discover the support and courage he needs to get his life back on track.

The director of America is also looking to use the music of local Detroit rock bands and rap acts to catch the urban feel of the city [source: Motorcityrocks.com]