Things Arab Men Say

Things Arab Men Say, released in 2017, is a Canadian documentary that provides a compelling window into the world of Arab men living in Canada. This intimate and intriguing movie will invite you into the fascinating sphere of cultural amalgamation, highlighting the struggles, enlightenment, and transformations these individuals go through as they navigate their lives in Canada, while still maintaining the ethos of their countries of origin.

Directed by the talented Nisreen Baker, the vibrant documentary runs for 52 minutes. It features a colorful cast of real individuals, actual friends who frequent Jamal's Eden Barber Shop in Albert? where various conversations with unique perspectives about identity, ethnicity, and cultural sensitivity are weaved into a rich narrative tapestry.

The movie is set within the interesting environment of a barber shop, an iconic site of banter, confession, and male camaraderie, and it introduces viewers to eight Arab men. The candid discussions offer glimpses into their experiences, personal and professional lives, and perspectives about politics, religion, and culture.

The primary purpose of Things Arab Men Say is to debunk stereotypes and misconceptions about Arab men living in the West, often portrayed negatively in the media. These men share their personal stories, discuss their lives, struggles, dreams, and hopes, and share candid opinions about their experiences. The film provides a platform for them to voice out their thoughts and feelings, breaking down the prevailing stereotypes about Arab men and Arab communities, depicting their depth, struggles, accomplishments, and individuality.

The film also explores the theme of cultural assimilation and the tensions between retaining a cultural identity and integrating into a new society. The cast members in the documentary hail from various countries - Egypt, Lebanon, Palestine, Iraq, and Sudan, giving a range of Arab experiences and perspectives on the broader cultural and political issues concerning Arabs living in the West.

An interesting component of the documentary is the breadth in age amongst the men, from young to old, allowing for a spectrum of perspectives. This age diversity showcases a continuum of experiences, beliefs, and attitudes, broadening our understanding of what it means to be an Arab man in Canada.

The dialogue is in English and Arabic, complete with English subtitles to ensure viewers' understanding. As such, the film simultaneously educates and provides entertainment as viewers navigate meanings across different cultures and languages.

Moreover, while Things Arab Men Say portrays the challenges faced by the men, it also presents their personalities, humor, and camaraderie, painting a humanizing and accurate portrait of Arab men. The employed barber shop setting provides the feeling of familiarity, comfort, and trust, reflecting how these men find solace and camaraderie in familiar places, reinforcing their sense of community and identity.

Additionally, the film delivers a compelling social commentary on racism, stereotyping, and prejudice, especially amidst the political and social climate that fuels xenophobia and Islamophobia. Many of the men discuss their experiences with discrimination or their fears and worries about these pertinent issues.

The movie's tone is intimate yet casual, evoking the sense of eavesdropping on a private, natural conversation between friends. This narrative flow makes the film more relatable, thereby allowing the viewer to form a deeper understanding and sympathy for these men's experiences.

Nisreen Baker's Things Arab Men Say is a poignant exploration of Arab identity in western society, examining the ways in which these identities are formulated, expressed, and perceived in a largely stereotypical context. It not only educates but also encourages viewers to reflect on their biases, attitudes, and preconceived ideas about Arab men living in Western societies.

Taking a refreshing angle on Arab men's lives, 'Things Arab Men Say' is a dialogue-driven film that serves as a vital counter-narrative to the existing stereotypes. It showcases the joys, fears, hopes, and struggles of these men while driving forward a compelling narrative about their lives in Canada. It is not just a movie but also a mirror into the lived experiences of immigrants trying to straddle a balance between a different cultural heritage and their newfound home.