MO’ALLEM (THE TEACHER)
Coming-of-age Feature w/ Musical Elements
MO'ALLEM is a feature film centered on the journey of MARYAM, a young woman navigating the complexities of tradition and personal aspirations in a small village by the Caspian Sea. Faced with the prospect of an arranged marriage, she is compelled to forge her path through considerable challenges in pursuit of her lifelong aspiration to become a teacher.
Set against the backdrop of a close-knit community, the narrative delves into the emotional intricacies of Maryam's decision-making as she devises a plan to escape her constrained surroundings.
Through the lens of its determined protagonist, MO'ALLEM offers an insight into the multifaceted challenges faced by women of color. The film encourages introspection on societal norms and prejudices, and evokes a broader understanding of global citizenship.
"MO'ALLEM is a screenplay that emotionally triggers and awakens an audience to see the worldwide issues surrounding women’s independence and racism targeted towards Middle Easterns during such a pivotal and traumatic time for both Muslims and Americans during 9/11."
-8/10 on The Black List
This screenplay is a brilliantly conceived, brilliantly executed portrait of identity and family and the American dream. Maryam is a wonderfully well-realized main character. She is talented and defiant and courageous while also human and vulnerable and conflicted. Incredible character craftsmanship. A superlatively astute illustration of psychological complexity.
-Austin Film Festival Finalist