Cummings also highlights
Maryam (Mariam Parris) is an Iranian teenager living in New York, trying to deal with conflicting thoughts during the events of 1979, as the U.S. gives refuge to the former shah of Iran and holds its breath while Islamic militants hold Americans hostage.
"The film demonstrates the way religious beliefs can both inspire and constrain individuals," Cummings explains. "Despite its unassuming style, the film has important things to say to Americans about Iranian American life and the way patriotism can often become a form of intimidation—a good perspective to remember during current events. It's a thoughtful film, especially for teenagers, that should not be missed by families seeking accessible, well-crafted movies for discussion."
Mainstream critics are starting to carry the torch as well. Andrew O'Hehir (Salon.com) writes, "This movie may not have the highest production values you've ever seen, but it's the work of an artist, one whose view of America, history and the awkwardness of human life is generous and deep."
from Film Forum, 04/25/02One recently acclaimed foreign title underlines the problem of the American media's misrepresentation of Arab peoples—the recent American-made film
Doug Cummings praises
To read an interview with Ramin Serry, visit Iranian.com.