Fantastic! Funny, sad, dramatic and multifaceted- everything a great film should be. But there are subtler messages. I imagine this movie will create some controversy surrounding the courageous Amira's independence. She is the Muslim version of a cafeteria Catholic. She embraces the dictates she agrees with and discards the rules that suppress her spirit.
The angry reviews criticizing the depiction of Amira as out of touch with Islamic custom completely miss the point. Amira is a strong, independent Muslim woman courageously living and dressing as SHE pleases despite the criticism she receives- even from other women. An empowering, complex and thought provoking message.
Martin Starr is charming as a leading man! Amira and Sam have a real on screen chemistry which has been rare in this day and age of formula romcom. Besides the beautiful Dina Shihabi the other 'breakout" star of this film may well be that red dress! I predict this humble little film will do very, very well- as it should. Best movie I've seen in an age.
