The Taqwacores

A fresh perspective on a scene that hasn't really been looked at. 2nd generation groups subcultures is massively under explored in cinema. This film does it well. Excellent acting, the conversations and scenes are fun and sometimes very candid. In a short space of time unpicking the constant conflict that 2nd generation minorities go through internally and within subgroup. It captures the ethos of punk and politics of the two groups. Yet entertaining throughout.

If you liked "Border Radio" or "Clerks" you might like this one. The theme of religion plays a conspicuous role here, though. The characters are young and searching for their own definitions of Islam. It's interesting to see the DIY approach the characters take. It's a sweet story about alienated friends trying to define themselves.

The editing and periodic black and white with talk radio blaring bigoted messages provides breaks in the story and relates the lives of the characters to the world. The overall feel of the movie is like those independent films of the late eighties and early nineties.

I think that the movie would have been better with more music, but the film does succeed in conveying the seriousness of the Muslim identity in modern America.

Even though Muslim punk exists since the beginning of the 80s, it was only in 2003 that this movement was known thanks to Michael Muhammad Knight's book. « The Taqwacores » is therefore based on this book and it was premiered seven years later. Even if the goal of the film is clear, that is showing the existence of this Muslim punk movement in the USA and the trouble in getting in, it hides some surprises and interrogations. Since the characters and the movie do not rebel without any reason, although the violence shown is sometimes too much, it is the consequence of an essential questioning of Islam. The power of the film lies in the director's decision of not taking the same path as other films dealing with religion. « The Taqwacores » does not only go against the flow, but it gives some food for thought: can we worship just a part of the Koran? That is, can we not just take all that is said for granted but also apply our critical sense in order to build our own faith? Can we reverse religious symbols and use them as we please? The film does not give any distinct answers and it does not mean to, but, thanks to some clever realistic dialogues and scenes, it suggests some ideas. And, at the end of the day, we do not ask for more but some ideas to encourage our thinking about a matter that should be better known. Full review on our blog Los Indiscretos : https://losindiscretos.org/2016/12/30/the-taqwacores-2010-eyad-zahra/

Interesting concept. Must acknowledge that films like these are the reason why Sundance will always be special.

The camera work was refreshing and must commend the efforts of the cast. Every small detail was well handled, the punk burkha for example, I've never imagined those black-bland clothes would ever get a creative touch, something I would envy if I were a fashion designer.

Yusef, this was a character that found its alter-ego in Jehangir and struggles to acknowledge that Jehangir is who he always wanted to be. Yusef will always be that person who reminded you that wanting to have fun and being pious need not always be two different things.

I really enjoyed watching those tiny clips with a couch, a person and a TV.

We are a nation of people who believe in liberty but will it ever be possible for Jehangir to wear the crescent and star although he is in no way connected with his religion. I seriously doubt it, but yes, we give Jehagir this ability in our films.

Applaud the efforts.

Taqwacores' film is primarily inspired by Michael Muhammad Knight's book. He writes about "autonomous zones and free lands, heterodox perspectives," and this book has garnered considerable attention. In the film, we see young people challenging orthodox discourses, and they are influenced by the Orthodox country that has subsequently overtaken them, and the media is also promoting hostility. The system generally polarizes and taboos a certain segment of society. Taqwacores appears as a response here, rejecting othering and trying to recognize those who are different from them. Yes, they are not faithful to the book, but they are also open to other interpretations. They believe in religion and see it as heterodox. They interpret various events and become active in society, or they oppose the system and protect their culture through heterodox. The film will surprise you with its feminist aspects, its punk demonstrations, and its youthful theme. If you're from an Islamic country, it will certainly surprise you with its striking aspects. Personally, I was surprised, of course. The young people who both preserve their culture and add punk elements, challenge the system and the media, are absolutely fascinating, and at the same time, they challenge orthodoxy without being like them.

"May God help Cihangir."