Asylum

(I saw this movie under its American release name, The Refuge.)

I am saddened to see how many people either did not appreciate this movie or did not want to appreciate this movie.

It is a very moving film, very well acted by the three central characters. Although it is about two Kurdish refugees who take refuge in a church, the central character is the priest who turns from a mouse to a lion in dealing with the challenges he confronts as a result of his willingness to offer refuge. We are also presented with a look into the British civil service bureaucracy, the Catholic church bureaucracy, and the Kurdish immigrant community in London.

I've heard for years about the suffering of the Kurds, but this brought it home. They are not only discriminated against, they are discriminated against by people who don't even know who they are.

There is really no reason, beyond anti-immigrant sentiment, that this movie should be rated as poorly as it has been. See for yourself.

An independent film that I saw at a festival - and it really affected me.

I won't spoil the plot but the story centres on three guys who escape from Saddam's Iraq and make it to Britain. When they get there, they realise that bureaucracy is their next biggest enemy. I was not the only one crying by the end of the movie. Great performances from the main actors and a story that still works now - even after Saddam's death.

It's a crime this film hasn't got a distribution deal. If you get the chance, see it

This is a compelling and emotionally truthful film, well-acted by an international cast, filmed in colour with a noir flavor...If I were a political science, history, philosophy or theology  teacher, I would introduce this film as a catalyst for discussion for students high school and up. A deeply moving film. Candy Campbell CINEQUEST FF

Those who would actually appreciate a window into the cultures of the Middle East and how they intersect and conflict with the ways of the West should check out Nigel Barker's THE REFUGE, ....this British film makes its point politically while also capturing some real emotional depth. (SP) METROACTIVE

by olmanrvr **** Engrossing performances all around in a story of differences which effects each of us in todays world, where Islam and Christianity divide people with good intentions into camps which eventually reap violence. A film worthy of your time and your mind.

The Refuge is a moving film, an eye-opener for those who have no awareness of refugee's/asylum seekers realities - at times unbelievable. Quite passionate acting, I enjoyed watching this film. The message I took away after watching 'The Refuge' is that wisdom is needed in our decision to help others and that at times the decision cannot be made independently. Faith and belief is also portrayed in this film. I would recommend you go and watch it! A sad but memorable ending but you will leave feeling more aware after watching it. I am also surprise this is not yet released in the cinema considering that asylum seeking is a major issue facing the UK.

Overall Grade: A Story: B+ Acting: B+ Direction: A Visuals: B

I found this film quite touching. I can't believe it has not come around the pictures as I saw at the Bradford film festival in April this year.

It is about a group of people that are claiming asylum in the UK after they are tortured in their home country. Their documents are lost and one by one they are arrested for illegal entry into the UK. Two are left and are chased by the police. They take refuge in a church during service. Father Michael (Dai Bradley) continues and gives them shelter, as he believes in their story.

Meanwhile, the police are surrounding the church along with reporters. Father Michael asks the people that attend his services to help him to support these asylum seekers.

Time passes, and one of the asylum seekers (Fuman Dar) becomes increasingly restless and anxious to get out and be free. His partner (Mahmoud Nasdar) tries to convince him that everything is going to be okay.

The film comes to a traumatic climax. You'll have to watch it to find out what happens, but I'll tell you this. I was nearly in tears by the end.