Jacir

This is a beautifully narrated film and incredibly well acted by an extraordinary cast. Jacir is the emotionally charged story of a Syrian immigrant in Memphis, Tennessee living through a personal crisis of loss due to war. He is at the roots of a new life in the West, where he is met with the reality which at times means cruel rejection, frustrating loneliness, and corrupt social fragility. Jacir, though, chooses to live with authenticity, inspiring self-confidence and tremendous courage. Malek Rahbani boldly and outstandingly shines in his debut film, portraying an unforgettable and emotionally articulate Jacir. A film for everyone to watch, with it's soul-searching themes and as a great reminder of our own need for deep and real human connection.

If you love movies based on great, real-life stories then this one is for you. Based in the grit and grind city of Memphis, it will challenge what you think about immigration and the obstacles migrants have to overcome when seeking legal citizenship. Masterfully written and presented by Waheed AlQawasmi, it will rival any big budget studio offering. Best of all, it will make you think, cry, laugh out loud and leave you wanting to know more about what happens to Jacir. The original soundtrack, sourced entirely by the Director, Al Kapone and Boo Mitchell, is strongly influenced by rap and the delta blues.

The soundtrak deserves a life of its own! Great performances by Lorraine Bracco, Malek Rahbani and Tutweezy.

A beautiful story told elegantly by incredible performances from the entire cast. Lorraine Bracco phenomenal as always. Malek Rahbani drew you into the story at every moment he was on screen.

This film tells a story of rebirth, our main character comes from a war torn country seeking a new life in the US, just to find himself dealing with the difficulty of inclusion within the American social community. Malek delivers a spectacular performance by expressing the hardships one goes through in life that any person could connect too.

This film is a great representation of the real life struggles immigrants go through seeking a new beginning.

As a daughter of immigrants, this film gave me a deeper and tearful appreciation of the real life struggles my parents went through seeking a new beginning in search of the American Dream.

Malek Rhabani brought Jacir to life. The raw emotion he boldly delivered on screen touched me--from the pain of isolation, injustice and racism, to the compassion, kindness and humanity he showed to a woman (Lorraine Bracco) who frankly didn't deserve it. What a phenomenal performance!

Lorraine Bracco's performance elicited feelings of anger for her character's ignorance, but also pity and compassion. It was a reminder of the human connection that we all need.

What a beautifully acted film and labor of love.

"Jacir" is such a thoughtful story, that is somehow both timely and timeless. Jacir's journey as a Syrian refugee, uprooted, and dropped in the American South, is told with heart and authenticity. A microcosm of a stranded soul, striving to do more than merely survive. However, the film's themes will resonate with anyone whose life has moved them in an unexpected and unwelcome direction.

The acting performances are stellar, with a breakout performance by Malek Rahbani as the titular character. He brought Jacir to life with equal parts heartbreak and hope. At times it felt like he was channeling the depth and charm of Charlie Chapman. "Jacir" also benefits greatly from the gravitas of the amazing Lorraine Bracco. This film allows her to shine. Her character is gritty and beautiful, and I can't get enough of that iconic raspy voice.

As a huge bonus, the original music in the film is the definition of original. A unique mix of Blues and Hip Hop that could not be more Memphis, and a sound that I've never heard before.

"Jacir" is a labor of love, and it shows. From the first frame to the last. Can't wait to see what comes next from this filmmaking team.