A Stray

A Stray is a poignant, 2016 American drama movie directed by Musa Syeed. It stars Barkhad Abdirahman, Fathia Absie, and Faysal Ahmed. The film stands out in terms of its storytelling, which provides a deep and compassionate insight into a community that is often misunderstood and misrepresented by mainstream media.

In the heart of Minneapolis, amidst America's bustling Somali community, A Stray depicts the communal aspect that connects humans in our shared quest for hope, acceptance, and a home. The protagonist is Adan (played by Barkhad Abdirahman), a young, troubled Somali-American man. While searching for his purpose in life, Adan wrestles with his identities—the one within his close-knit community and another in the broader realms of America.

Adan's life spirals into chaos when he's kicked out of his home, loses his job, and is cut off from the mosque, leaving him homeless and alone. His personal journey strongly resonates with the perils and dilemmas faced by immigrants in America and worldwide. The film focuses strongly on the protagonist's faith and values that he struggles to stick to amidst his dire circumstances.

During Adan's troubled journey, faith brings him to Laila (Fathia Absie), a loving, kind-hearted mother who momentarily gives him a place to stay. Although a staunch Mistress at her home, Laila's character brings a sense of warmth and motherhood to the plot, symbolizing hope.

The turning point of Adan's life occurs when he hits a stray dog while trying to steal a vehicle. Overwhelmed with guilt and guided by his belief that every living creature deserves compassion, Adan decides to take care of the dog. He names her Laila after the human Laila who helped him.

However, this decision introduces a new set of challenges due to cultural and religious factors. In the Somali community, dogs are often perceived as impure, adding a new layer of alienation for Adan in his community. This relationship brings a fresh perspective to the audience about the cultural norms and values in the Somali community.

Faysal Ahmed, who's prominent in Hollywood for his role in Captain Phillips, plays the character of Jamal. Adan's interaction with Jamal brings into focus the dark underbelly of the immigrant experience.

A Stray is a powerful exploration of the human spirit and the intricate dynamics of life, told against the backdrop of a vibrant immigrant community. The script dives into important and less traveled aspects of the immigrant experience, keenly focusing on the Somali community in America.

Syed balances his story creatively between an intense drama and the sensitive subject matter it deals with – religion, culture, identity, and immigration. The film's brilliance lies not only in its storyline but also in its hard-hitting performances. Barkhad Abdirahman portrays the character of Adan with a depth that tugs at your heartstrings. Abdirahman's performance magnifies the inner turmoil his character faces, making the audience empathize with his struggle between innate gentleness and the harsh demands of survival.

The movie also presents a fascinating depiction of Minneapolis. The city emerges as a character of its own, showcasing vibrant, bustling Somali markets, and American landscapes that perfectly capture the dichotomy that exists for immigrants in America.

Lastly, at its core, A Stray is an intense portrayal of companionship. The relationship between Adan and the stray dog serves as an allegory for the immigrant experience. It represents the 'stray' in every one of us, seeking acceptance, companionship, and a place to call home.

In conclusion, A Stray is a moving drama that explores the complexities of life as an immigrant, the cultural implications of faith, and the universal need for acceptance and belonging. Its realistic portrayal of the Somali community, the city of Minneapolis, and the challenges that come with being a stray provide a mirror of contemporary society. Everyone – whether a dog, a man, or an entire community – seeks acceptance and unity in their own way. In shedding light on these themes, A Stray is more than a movie – it's a narrative of human vulnerability and resilience, a story of survival, and a testament to the power of connection and companionship. It's an absolute must-watch.