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Hussein Al-Sous as Murad

Despite the film's flaws, there's something winsome about Abu Raed in his captain's hat, entertaining kids with visits to cities that exist only in his imagination. In the middle of the movie there's a wonderful scene between Abu Raed and a French tourist. Abu Raed finds this man's lost suitcase, and in the course of thanking him the tourist realizes that Abu Raed speaks French. It's a marvelous exchange that embodies the spirit of the film, that affection can be kindled in an instant and cross age, gender, class and cultural lines.

When two people take the risk and allow friendship to bloom from affection, the results can be life-changing, not just for the two, but for all who come into their lives. The brief conversation between Abu Raed and the French tourist leads to an act of kindness that makes the film's triumphant climax possible. This powerful message trumps the film's weaknesses, at least for anyone with a heart.

The film is opening in limited release on July 3, but will expand to more cities in the months ahead. Click here for more information.

Talk About It

1. Murad feels that his lot in life is set in stone, and as a result he's angry at the world. In what ways do you blame your unhappiness on things you cannot control? What's a more biblical response to disappointment?
2. Hope is a big theme in the film. How has hope been a part of your spiritual journey?
3. Abu Raed chooses to get involved in the lives of his neighbors, and ends up changing them for the better. Do you know your actual next-door neighbors, or do you only consider as neighbors those people you like to spend time with? How can you bring the light of the gospel into their lives?

The Family Corner

Captain Abu Raed is not rated by the MPAA. There are intimations of domestic violence, but that violence occurs off-screen, overheard but not seen.

Photos © NeoClassics Films

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