Set against the Cold War's backdrop in 1986, 'American Spy' follows Marie Mitchell, a young black woman and brilliant FBI intelligence officer, as she navigates the complexities of her profession in an era dominated by white men. When given a chance to join a covert task force, Marie is tasked with undermining Thomas Sankara, Burkina Faso's revolutionary and communist leader. Torn between her secret admiration for Sankara and her loyalty to her country, her mission becomes deeply personal as it intertwines with her own identity, beliefs, and the profound grief of losing her sister. As Marie plays her part in the political chess game, she is forced to confront the true cost of espionage and what it means to be a good American.