Ramadhan Review Special: Arranged

Synopsis

Two young women — one an Orthodox Jew, the other Muslim — meet and become friends as first-year teachers at a public school in Brooklyn. Over the course of the year they learn they share much in common, not least of which is that they are both going through arranged marriages.

This film is actually based on a true story of an Orthodox Jewish woman named Yuta Silverman who is also an executive producer of this film.

The film started out in the library of a public school where first year teachers had an ice breaking session. Nasira Khalidi, a Muslim of Syrian descent was up first. Followed by an Orthodox Jew Rochel (pronounced: Ro-Hel) Mashenberg. At first, they didn't talk to each other. Their friendship began when some students began to make some prejudicial remarks towards them. Nasira was teaching the class while Rochel was there to assist a blind student in that class as Rochel specialized in special children education and they were called to Principal Jacoby's office because of that. Another thing that strengthen their friendship is that both of them are going through the process of arranged marriage hence the title). Rochel went through a process called sadkhan which involves an arranged date set up by the matchmaker while Nasira went through the usual family coming to her house to meet her family. What I like about this move is that they portray Nasira's family as non-judgmental and not oppressive. Contrary to what's been reported by Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International and whatnots, when it comes to arranged marriage, both Nasira's parents did not force her to enter into arranged marriage. They actually want what's best for Nasira and took into account of Nasira's personal opinion. And, when Nasira finally found a match, they gave their blessings seeing how happy Nasira is. Meanwhile, Rochel was struggling in meeting a match of her own. Basically, she was pressured by her family to get married quickly (reminds you guys of something right?) in order to avoid diminished prospects of her sister Naomi.

On another note, this film also criticizes the liberalists and the secularists. For example, Principal Jacoby who is a secular Jew felt that it was her job to modernize both Nasira and Rochel which I think is unnecessary. In some way, I felt that Jacoby was disrespectful of both of their culture and try to force her beliefs to them.

In my opinion, this film is worth a watch. It is a feel good romantic comedy film with a hint of culture. Yes, you guys get to learn some culture, especially when it comes to Orthodox Jewish culture. This film also portrays that people can be modern and keep up with the current time while adhering to their faiths at the same time.

This film shows how individual relationships can transcend age-old divisions and shows that in the search for love, true friends know best.

Rating: 4.5/5

Now, on to the trailer:



Starring: Zoe Lister-Jones, Francis Benhamou, Doris Belack and Mimi Lieber.

For more info, head on to Arranged Official Website

Credits to Cicala Film Works on Youtube

My lecturer once told me....

If someone insults/degrades Islam, please don't get too emotional.

Kalau orang kutuk/hina Islam, jangan cepat melatah.

Instead, just calmly and diplomatically explain to them of their misconceptions.

For example:
You told me that you don't like war but you have to support it cause your brother's in it.
You know how stupid that sounds.
Well, if your brother fell into the sewer, are you going to stand and say, "Hell yeah! I support this sewer. He can die but he has to stay."

Lagi kau rage, lagi banyak lah modal yang diorang dapat. That actually gives them reasons to insult Islam more.

What I'm trying to say: Advise, don't fight. With advising, you can be sarcastic while you're at it.

A Maulidur Rasul entry

Yesterday was the 12th Rabiulawal 1433. You guys know what that means?

That's right! Prophet Muhammad PBUH (Peace Be Upon Him) was born.

Normally, in here we celebrate by conducting a procession while praying and making selawats for the Prophet (PBUH). Well, at least that's what schools and workplaces are conducting. It is a holiday after all.

Personally, instead of procession, why don't we remind each other to do good deeds to mankind? I'm sure the Prophet (PBUH) would be happy for us. Plus, no good deeds go unrewarded if you know what I mean.

Actually, good deeds can be done everyday regardless of holiday or no holiday. It can be something a simple as throwing a trash in the trash can or something else such as studying, do chores and the like.


Title : One Day
Artist: Matisyahu



What would you say to the Prophet (PBUH) if you get to sit with him for one minute?

Other than assalamualaikum, what comes next is really difficult. I might cry like the girl in the video because it is the Prophet (PBUH) we're talking about. It's every Muslims' dream to be with him. I think not only it's overwhelming thinking about it but it's actually pretty cool. Of course, I have to choose my words carefully. Being rude and explicit is a big no-no. Seriously, I don't know what to say other than giving salam to him. I might cry. Well, I almost cried watching that video which I muted it knowing that if I turned up the volume, I would cry more than I cried during the time Elphaba sang Defying Gravity in the Wicked the Musical.

To end this entry, I would like to wish Happy holidays and Happy Maulidur Rasul to all ^_^