Mooz-lum
| Company type | Independent film |
|---|---|
| Industry | Film |
| Founded | 2011 |
| Founder | Qasim "Q" Basir |
| Products | Film |
Mooz-lum is a 2011 American independent film created by Qasim "Q" Basir, who both wrote and directed the project. The cast includes Danny Glover, Nia Long, and Evan Ross. This movie delves into the effects of the September 11 attacks on an African American Muslim family and their experiences in the aftermath. Initially gaining attention via social media campaigns, it was released in select theaters on February 11, 2011.
Cast
- Evan Ross portraying Tariq Mahdi
- Nia Long as Safiq
- Danny Glover playing Dean Francis
- Roger Guenveur Smith in the role of Hassan Mahdi
- Azhar Usman as Brother Hussein
- Maryam Basir appearing as Ayanna
Plot
Tariq Mahdi (played by Evan Ross), who was brought up in a devout Muslim family, begins his college journey feeling uncertain. Supported by friends, relatives, and guides, he embarks on a path to discover his true self but is compelled to face challenges linked to his history following the events of 9/11, which force him to make pivotal choices.
Filming
The production took place in Southeastern Michigan, with significant university scenes captured at both the University of Michigan and Eastern Michigan University. Scenes set in a mosque were filmed at the Islamic Center of America located in Dearborn, Michigan.
Reception
As of January 2015, Mooz-lum maintained an 80% approval rating among critics on Rotten Tomatoes. Omer Mozaffar, a film critic, praised it on RogerEbert.com, calling it "a long awaited breath of fresh air."
Awards and honors
- Best Narrative Feature at the 14th Annual Urbanworld Film Festival, 2010
- Official Selection at the Chicago International Film Festival, 2010
- Official Selection at the 34th Cairo International Film Festival
See also
Further reading
- Basir, Qasim. "I Am a Muslimerican". The Huffington Post, August 19, 2010.
- "Film 'Mooz-lum' Confronts Public Perceptions of Islam", Tell Me More, National Public Radio, September 20, 2010.
- ""Mooz-lum": faith flourishing in freedom" - Contending Modernities, February 17, 2011.