Acceptable Damage

Acceptable Damage is a 2019 British drama film directed by Lavinia Simina that tells the story of a young Muslim boy named Nas, played by Elijah Baker, who becomes the target of racial and religious discrimination and bullying at his school in London.

The film opens by introducing viewers to Nas and his family, who live in a predominantly Muslim neighborhood. Nas' father is a hardworking taxi driver who encourages his son to focus on his education, hoping that he will one day become a doctor. Nas is diligent and studious, but he struggles to fit in at school. His classmates tease him for his religion and mock his accent, and he quickly becomes the target of bullies.

As the bullying escalates, Nas becomes increasingly isolated and withdrawn. He develops a close friendship with his English teacher, Ms. Appleton, played by Fiona Whitelaw, who sees potential in him and encourages him to pursue his dreams. When Nas' father is involved in a traffic accident and is unable to work, Nas is forced to take on a part-time job to help support his family. This further isolates him from his classmates, who taunt him for working at a fast food restaurant.

As the film progresses, Nas' situation becomes increasingly desperate. The bullying reaches a fever pitch, and Nas is beaten up and left lying in the street. His father is unable to pay for his medical bills, and he falls into a deep depression. Ms. Appleton becomes increasingly concerned for Nas' well-being and begins to take action. She meets with the school's principal to voice her concerns, but her efforts are met with resistance.

The film reaches its climax when Nas is falsely accused of being involved in a terrorist plot. The accusation spreads like wildfire, and Nas finds himself the target of not only his classmates but also the wider community. He and his family are forced to flee their home and go into hiding, and Nas' dreams of becoming a doctor seem impossibly out of reach. Throughout it all, Ms. Appleton remains a steadfast ally, doing everything in her power to support Nas and his family.

Acceptable Damage is a powerful and timely film that touches on issues of racism, discrimination, and the damaging effects of bullying. The film is expertly acted, with Elijah Baker delivering a heartbreaking performance as the young Nas. Fiona Whitelaw is equally impressive as the compassionate and determined Ms. Appleton, whose efforts to help Nas provide a glimmer of hope in an otherwise bleak story.

Director Lavinia Simina frames the film in a way that emphasizes the isolation and alienation experienced by Nas, using tight close-ups and long shots to capture the insidious nature of bullying. The film does an excellent job of highlighting the complexity of the issue, showing how bullying can be both physical and emotional, and how deeply it can affect its victims.

Overall, Acceptable Damage is a thought-provoking and deeply affecting film that offers a sobering look at the devastating impact of discrimination and bullying. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and empathy, and of the need for us all to work together to create a more inclusive and equitable society.