Rabia

With subject matter like this, you would find it hard to think you could become so drawn into the character. Within the first couple minutes your already enthralled with this young woman, and her life leading up to her final moments. In looking through the taboo subject matter, you get a personal glimpse into the mind of someone stuck in an endless cycle of violence, and what it took to push her into the decision that she has made.

The cinematography and writing were outstanding, and the acting was very good, all in all making this one of the better short films i've seen. A must watch.

I previewed Rabia for the 2008 Lake Arrowhead Film Festival and recommended it heartily to the committee. While it is a disturbing film, it is an important film. That was confirmed by the Lake Arrowhead Film Festival jury, which named Rabia Best Student Film. Ali Hasan and Hanieh Jodat both attended the festival and were available to answer questions.

It was hard to believe the film was the work of a student as it was so well done from every angle--cinematography, direction, acting, script.

I agree that one of the amazing things about the film is that it leads you to sympathize with Rabia because you understand her actions. While we do not condone those actions, we are made to see her as a person, to understand in a limited way a completely different mindset.

Ali is certain to be a cinematic force to be reckoned with. We all look forward to his next film.

The most challenging thing about this film was that you found yourself rooting for the bad guy. After you see everything that Rabia has gone through in her life -- how she has been rejected by one man after another culminating with her husband (played by an actor from the film THE FAST AND THE FURIOUS) throwing her out of the house because Rabia is infertile, you almost want her to succeed in her terrorist endeavor. I also admired that she wanted to show the men of her community (who had so rejected her) that she could fight for Palestine too, that she doesn't have to be a man to help the cause. I'm surprised that a man wrote this. It shows great insight into being a woman, a strong woman challenged by mediocre circumstances. I know a lot of people who would be offended by the content, but it is dealt with in a very thoughtful way, and I think it just shows how the cruelties of society can cause terrorism. Regardless, it's a good story at the end of the day -- with great cinematography, great acting, especially by the lead actress, and great direction.

It's not an easy task. Not a pleasant task. Not a task I would wish upon anyone. But Ali Hassan and his creative team, incredible cast and artistic vision managed to do the unthinkable. In a post 9/11 America, they created a film so transcendent, so human, yet so crippling in emotion, that one finds himself actually rooting for a Muslim terrorist. Amazing.

The film is shot beautifully and professionally. The breathtaking images on the screen create a resonating clash with the plot taking place. Ali Hassan did an amazing job bringing to life, and humanizing that which would seem unthinkable.

When I went to the Sundance Film Festival one of the organizers said the mark of a great film is that it stays with you long after you have seen it. Well, this is that sort of film which stays with you after you watch it, and makes you think about it more. In fact I have thought about it a lot since I first saw it. I can see why it has won as many awards as it has. Everything about it is great, the actors, the sets, the way it all unfolds. Even though it is a short film, it really packs in a lot of story into that short time. You really understand the protagonist's motivation, and see where she is coming from. Definitely, a must see.