Review of Towelhead (2008) by John M — 06 Aug 2009

You think YOU have problems? Meet Jasira, a 13-year old Lebanese girl from Syracuse who moves to Houston to live with her strict, uptight father. This is a movie about her facing everything from racism to piggish neighbors to regular problems of the pubescent nature.

This film feels very real and authentic, and because it feels so genuine, that makes all of what is happening onscreen very awkward; there are uncomfortable moments a plenty here, but, to balance that out, there are also a number of dark laughs to be had.

Towelhead features some really good performances, especially from the lead girl and Aaron Eckhart, who plays a really despicable character who you just loathe. I didn't really know what Towelhead was about before I watched it besides it featuring an Iraqi girl, but I'm very glad I gave it the viewing it deserves.