Jacir

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.

Great film! The performances of the main characters convey emotions and complexities that keep you excited and waiting for the next scene throughout the movie.

Very interesting topic that touches on difficulties and struggles a lot of people endure in their daily life. People immigrating across the world after loosing everything back home, leaving behind all the good and bad memories, family members and friends, seeking a future they thought they could pursue in a western country like the US , not knowing that they will encounter a lot of people that are not accepting with no empathy.

However, the movie ends on a good note to prove that good always wins in this world no matter what, and that regardless of race, color, religion, sex, social class, we're all the same human beings.

I encourage everyone to watch it!

This movie showcases the hardships and challenges that is an unfortunate reality in America. It was heartbreaking and inspiring and hopeful all in one.

Malek's performance demands the audience's appraisal as he navigates various emotional aspects of his role. He perfectly adapted his performance to the character himself which communicated seamlessly with the plot.

Additionally, while having some heartbreaking aspects, the idea of a found-family formed among the characters of Jacir and Meryl, and of course Jerome, brings a warming turn to the story.

(Side note, growing up with poor Middle Eastern representation in media makes this movie feel all the more rewarding) GO WATCH JACIR.

"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.

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.