Watch Breaking Fast

Breaking Fast is a romantic comedy film directed by Mike Mosallam, premiered at Cinequest Film and Creativity Festival on March 6, 2020. The movie portrays the story of Mo, a gay Muslim doctor living in West Hollywood, who is celibate during the holy month of Ramadan. The lead role of Mo is played by Haaz Sleiman, who excellently captures the subtlety of his character’s conflicted emotions. Mo is still struggling to get over his ex-lover Hassan, who has since moved on and is now engaged to a woman. His heartbreak is evident throughout the film. He is a devout Muslim who is trying to keep his faith strong and stay true to his beliefs.

When Mo’s friends convince him to attend a party, he meets Kal, played by Michael Cassidy, a charming and easy-going actor. They bond over their shared love for cinema and share a passionate kiss. Kal is exactly the kind of person Mo was looking for. He is not a Muslim but he respects Mo’s tradition and values. They go on dates, share laughter and enjoy each other's company.

As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, however, their relationship hits a snag. Mo’s faith prohibits him from eating or drinking anything during daylight hours, which means that he cannot go out for dinner or drinks with Kal until after sunset. Kal, while he means well, finds it hard to adjust to Mo’s dietary restrictions, which creates tension and strains their relationship.

Breaking Fast is beautifully shot, with bright colors and skillfully crafted lighting. It perfectly captures the spirit of Ramadan, incorporating the religious rituals into the story seamlessly. The film’s soundtrack is fantastic, featuring Arabic music and modern songs that add to the ambiance.

The supporting cast in Breaking Fast is also noteworthy. Amin El Gamal plays Mo’s best friend, Sam, who helps him navigate the ups and downs of his budding relationship with Kal. Gamal brings levity and charm to his performance, adding another layer to the film.

The movie shines a light on the complexities of being a Muslim in America while dealing with a rapidly changing world. The social and cultural aspects of being a Muslim and a member of the LGBTQ+ community are explored, showing how isolating it can be with the lack of representation in media.

Overall, Breaking Fast is a charming romantic comedy about two people falling in love while navigating their cultural differences. It is a refreshing and realistic portrayal of a Muslim-American experience, and it’s entertaining and heartfelt, without resorting to preachiness or stereotyping. Breaking Fast is a must-watch for anyone looking for an engaging movie that explores the complexities of faith, identity and relationships.