Cannes Short Film Corner 2018 - Undefined: A Muslim-American Musical
A young woman must find confidence to represent her culture and religion in a culturally biased society.
Interview with Writer/Director/Producer Amatullah’Muhyi Ali
Congratulations! Why did you make your film?
Thank you so much! It was truly a revealing journey creating Undefined: A Muslim-American Musical. At the time, writing Undefined, I didn’t know the cultural affect it would have. I made this film because it was a story I felt I hadn’t heard in such a memorable way. This story is so close to my heart and I am not the only person who can relate to the character or feel a sort of loss with the lack of representation for the African-American Muslim population. Although the film is not autobiographical, I relate greatly to this character and felt that others would benefit from this all too-common identity crisis, faced in the United States.
Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?
You should watch this film because I imagine you are a citizen of the world. This film exposes an often overlooked perspective of an underrepresented identity. Even if you do not consider yourself the same race, nationality, religion, or creed as the main character, her journey towards self-identification is something we all face as we transform into adults. As a citizen of the world, you have an obligation to acknowledge various people and their journeys. This film offers a chance to broaden your perspective, making you a more worldly being.
How do personal and universal themes work in your film?
This film is very personal, whether it be the mother-daughter dynamic, the unforgiving job search, unreported sexual interactions, or the musical numbers exposing the safety in conformity, this film strikes a sensitive chord due to its relevance. On a universal level, we are living in a time where, quite frankly, it sucks to be Muslim. It has become the social norm to witness some form of religious or racial prejudice in your day-to-day experience. This film showcases, that not only is that wrong, but can have internally damaging effects on people and society. Undefined offers a moment of reflection, hopefully resulting in a more proactive society.
How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development?
They say an artist's work is never truly finished, just abandoned. Being both the writer and director of this film, the story was constantly evolving. I’m sure it was a combination of myself learning from the perception of each of the characters' talents, as well as the crew's dedication to our long hours and difficult script. The amazing team I worked with brought great detail to the narrative and honestly brought it to life. They were all working towards a goal, for a project they believed in, that I wrote. It was so humbling and they transformed this personal narrative of inner struggle and identity, to one of great significance and social reflection.
What type of feedback have you received so far?
The positive reception of this film has been unprecedented. In all honesty, I thought the public wasn’t going to understand it, and that it would be way too personal and even boring. That could’ve just been my artist mind playing tricks on me, but I’ve gotten great opportunities from this film and even considering an off-broadway adaptation. I am grateful for all the feedback I’ve been given and really have to give all praises to my amazing crew and production team.
Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?
Like I said, I was surprised, by the positivity. There have been few disbelievers and criticisms. I take in each response personally and apply it to my next project, which is all you can really do once the film has been completed. I am honored that the film drew a reaction out either way, that’s the goal.
What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?
I’m hoping more people find the need to research and learn more about the film and its origins, as well as the people it reflects. I am also hoping that more people follow and support the newly developed production company, AfroTwin Productions, which this film is a direct product of.
Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?
As a member of AfroTwin Productions we are always looking for new members to be added on the team. Right now we are in search of journalists and script developers for our next production venture.
What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?
I would like this film, if anything, to evoke a conversation between races, classes, and various religions. We have all felt discriminated against in some way or another, but are shy to actually speak on it. This film depicts a single story that stemmed from countless experiences. I hope this film gives insight and serves as an invitation to further research.
What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?
“What factors lead Amina (the protagonist) feeling pressured to identify?”
Would you like to add anything else?
Thank you for taking the time to read about Undefined: A Muslim-American Musical, I hope whoever you are, reading this you are enticed to not only watch my film, but other films that offer a new perspective!
What other projects are the key creatives developing or working on now?
AfroTwin Productions is currently in development of a television series, hoping to be distributed on an internet streaming site.
Interview: May 2018
We Are Moving Stories embraces new voices in drama, documentary, animation, TV, web series, music video, women's films, LGBTQIA+, POC, First Nations, scifi, supernatural, horror, world cinema. If you have just made a film - we'd love to hear from you. Or if you know a filmmaker - can you recommend us? More info: Carmela
Undefined: A Muslim-American Musical
A young woman must find confidence to represent her culture and religion in a culturally biased society.
Length: 24 minutes
Director: Amatullah’Muhyi Ali
Producer: Amatullah’Muhyi Ali and Michelle Martinez
Writer: Amatullah’Muhyi Ali
Key cast: Keziah John-Paul, Desi Waters, Ari Gilgeous, Jenny Burks, Nicolette Lynch
Facebook: www.facebook.com/afrotwinproductions
Twitter: @AfroTwinProd
Instagram: @AfroTwinProd
Made in association with: AfroTwinProductions, LLC
Where can I watch it next and in the coming month? The film is still circulating through festivals and we’re waiting to hear back from a few. You can get up to date information on where to view Undefined: A Muslim-American Musical and of AfroTwin Productions original pieces on all of our social media accounts as well as www.AfroTwinProductions.com.