Free Trip to Egypt

"I'm so racist I can't stand it," declares Ellen. Pretty soon she's riding a camel in Cairo. A perfect subject for Tarek Mounib's "calling" of a film: to bring red State Americans into the welcoming hands of Egyptian Muslims, to facilitate some kind of discussion.

Easier said than done, turns out not many Trumpeters are eager to fly into the middle of the Middle East, even on Mounib's all inclusive dime. But soon enough, a lucky seven are experiencing their fish out of water experience in the desert. Eager to start conversations instead of preaching and teaching, Mounib pairs the Yanks with inviting Egyptian counterparts, and that's when the movie shines. All touristy bits aside (thankfully they are few), it is the frank connections made in muslim homes that stirs this melting pot.

Some see the light. Some remain blinded. Some have staggering personal revelations. Others appear unmoved. But all have the experience of a lifetime. As a documentary, "Free Trip To Egypt" works mainly because of Mounib's unrelenting optimism, unabashed cheerfulness, huggy good vibes, and discreet apolitical approach. He is the perfect conduit host for this experiment, and more importantly, someone who has actually done something with his calling.

• hipCRANK