Watch Maz Jobrani: I'm Not a Terrorist, But I've Played One on TV

Maz Jobrani: I'm Not a Terrorist, But I've Played One on TV is a comedy documentary filmed in 2015, directed by Maz Jobrani himself. The movie is a personal journey of Maz Jobrani, an Iranian-American stand-up comedian, actor, and writer, as he shares his hilarious and thought-provoking anecdotes about his experiences in Hollywood and the world at large.

The movie begins with a witty introduction of Jobrani, showcasing his talent for comedy and his unique perspective as an Iranian-American in the wake of 9/11. He explains how he has played the role of a terrorist in several Hollywood productions, including "24," "Better off Ted," and "Mozart in the Jungle." This is an apt cue for the title of the documentary, which is a play on words based on Jobrani's real-life experiences.

With his signature brand of humor, Jobrani sets out to address the stereotypes surrounding Middle Easterners and Muslims in American media and culture. He humorously shares his experiences of being typecast as a terrorist, even when he auditions for innocent roles like the "Guy in a suit."

One of the most striking aspects of the movie is how Jobrani's personal narrative transcends the realm of comedy and becomes an insightful commentary on race and identity in America. With his light-hearted approach, he addresses serious issues like immigration, profiling, and prejudice. He shares his frustrations with the limited image of the Middle Eastern community portrayed in the media and the lack of representation in Hollywood. At the same time, he highlights the need for empathy and understanding between different communities.

The documentary also features interviews with prominent figures in the entertainment industry, including Paul Feig, Jon Stewart, and the late Orson Bean. These interviews provide further insight into the challenges faced by minority actors in Hollywood and how the industry needs to change to be more inclusive.

One of the most memorable moments in the documentary is when Jobrani talks about the absurdity of being an Iranian-American comedian in the post-9/11 era. He recounts how some audience members would leave his shows after hearing his Middle Eastern name, assuming that he was a terrorist. He humorously shares his tactic of addressing this by beginning his shows with the line, "Don't worry, I'm not a terrorist; I'm a comedian."

Throughout the movie, Jobrani's comic timing and affable persona make for an engaging viewing experience. He masterfully intertwines his personal experiences with larger issues affecting the Middle Eastern community in America, creating a unique blend of comedy and social commentary. He invites the audience to laugh with him, while also encouraging them to reflect on their prejudices and assumptions.

The documentary has received acclaim for its nuanced approach to the topic of race and identity. It has been praised for its ability to tackle serious issues while also being a lighthearted and entertaining watch. It is a movie that will leave you with both laughter and empathy.

In conclusion, Maz Jobrani: I'm Not a Terrorist, But I've Played One on TV is an insightful and hilarious documentary that addresses important issues pertaining to race and identity in America. Jobrani's unique perspective and engaging humor make for an enjoyable and thought-provoking viewing experience. The movie is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the challenges faced by minority communities in the entertainment industry and beyond.

Maz Jobrani: I'm Not a Terrorist, But I've Played One on TV is a 2015 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 17 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.