The Infidel

Release Date: May 5th, 2010

Genre: Comedy

Stars: Omid Djalili, Richard Schiff, Archie Panjabi

Synopsis: A British Muslim man learns upon his mother's death that he was adopted and is in fact actually of Jewish heritage.

AltAss Ratings (On a scale of 1 to 5 asses)

Plot:                                      

The identity crises idea raised by this film is an excellent idea for a comedy and the storyline does a pretty good job of showcasing the hillarious potential.

Writing / Production:         

When it was funny it was really funny but the film also had plenty of groaners and left me feeling like it didn't capitalize on all of its potential.

Acting:                                 

I liked Richard Schliff who plays the Jewish man that helps the lead character cope with his new found identity and learn the customs.  I didn't hate Omad Djalili in the lead but can't help but wonder if somebody else wouldn't have made this film a lot funnier.

Originality:                          

Identity crises comedies are a dime a dozen but this one did take some serious chances by poking fun at two major world religions.

Overall:                                

My favorite part of this movie is the depiction of the Muslims and Jews that practice their faith much less rigidly and more akin to the Catholic or Christian who only goes to church a few times a year and sits in the back.  That was refreshing because usually those two groups are strictly depicted as devout or extremist on the screen and "The Infidel" does a lot to weaken those stereotypes.  This movie is good for a few really solid laughs as well and should be enjoyable for audiences seeking a light and fun comedy.

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