Review of Mooz-lum (2011) by Paullita M — 15 Feb 2011

Qasim "Q" Basir's "Mooz-lum" picks up where Spike Lee's "X" leaves off by focusing on the dedication and devotion of one African American family caught in the flotsam of jetsam of anti-Muslim politics -- both pre and post 9/11.

In this semi-autobiographical film by 26 year old writer/director Basir, we witness the story of the young Tariq told through flashbacks as the older Tariq goes to college and wrestles with the cognitive dissonance he faces as he attempts to abandon his rigid religious upbringing to be like everyone else.

Young Tariq at a Michigan Madrasa memorizes a page from the Q'uran every day; he also sneaks away to flirt with a blond, Catholic school girl and to go trick or treating -- and he endures the wrath of one very strict teacher. Older Tariq -- who wants to be called "T" -- tries his first beer, eats his first non-halal food, and goes to his first concert. We witness his struggle as he tries to abandon ingrained rituals and beliefs -- and we see his spunky sister (who still wears a scarf) try to bring her brother back to the family fold.

Danny Glover (who coached Basir in the writing of his film), Nia Long (Tariq's mother), and Evan Ross (Diana Ross's son who plays Tariq) act along side several newcomers including Kimberly Drummond, Maryam Basir, Jonathan Smith, and Summer Bashil. We believe in these multi-layered characters who grapple with themes not usually addressed in American cinema.

The film won awards at the 2010 Urban World Film Festival and was an official selection at the 2010 Chicago International Film Festival 2010.