Introduction"Mooz-lum" is a 2011 American drama film directed and composed by Qasim Basir. The film title represents the dominating mispronunciation of the word "Muslim" in American society. It stars Evan Ross, Nia Long, Danny Glover, and Roger Guenveur Smith. It was produced by Dana Offenbach and Samad Davis. The independent movie supplies an insight into a Muslim family's journey and its battles in a post 9/11 era.
PlotThe stirring drama portrays the life of Tariq Mahdi (Evan Ross), who is sent to an Islamic boarding school by his dad Hassan (Roger Guenveur Smith), a strict disciplinarian. The boarding school is led by Dean Rashid (Dorian Missick) who has rigorous guidelines regarding prayer, dress, habits, and punishments for disobedience. Pushed into a life bounded by extensive disciplinary procedures, Tariq feels trapped and starts resenting his religious training.
Upon being gotten rid of from the boarding school, Tariq goes to college and undertakings to live a typical life far from the shackles of rigorous Islamic concepts. Dealing with a cultural clash, he withstands being identified as a Muslim student and attempts to blend into the varied college culture. Nevertheless, the awful occasions of 9/11 drag him back into his past, pushing him to face his faith and identity.
Presentation of 9/11The film takes a plain turn after 9/11 when Muslims, including Tariq, become unjustly targeted. Tariq's roomie, Hamza (Kunal Sharma), who honestly practices his faith, ends up being a victim of an Islamophobic attack on campus. Tariq comes to grips with his identity as a Muslim, the trauma of his past and the animosity prevalent in the post-9/ 11 environment.
Household Relationships"Mooz-lum" provides a complicated depiction of family characteristics. Hassan, Tariq's daddy, argues with his other half Safiyah (Nia Long) about how to raise their children. His fanatical belief in the value of spiritual education creates friction between him and Tariq, contributing to the latter's internal struggle. Safiyah's character offers balance, portraying a peaceful and loving approach to faith and family. She plays an important role, significantly affecting Tariq's challenging journey through individual and spiritual conflicts.
Social Critique"Mooz-lum" makes a poignant social statement about the experiences of Muslims in a Western society. It highlights the stereotypes, predispositions, and fears that frequently surround Islam, highlighting how they are enhanced after devastating events like 9/11. Through Tariq's character, the movie checks out the internal battle of lots of Muslims who are caught between their faith, identity, and the outside world's understanding and prejudice.
Conclusion"Mooz-lum" provides a sobering look into the life and struggles of American Muslims in a post 9/11 world, expertly combining an individual coming-of-age story with a potent social review. It showcases a profound narrative about religious trauma, id, and social bias. With strong efficiencies and an impactful story, the movie delivers a significant message about understanding, tolerance, and accepting diversity in our society. Overall, it provides a vital and rarely seen point of view on the American-Muslim experience.
Top Cast
