Watch The Education of Mohammad Hussein

The Education of Mohammad Hussein is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary film that explores the struggles and challenges faced by Muslim-Americans in the wake of the September 11th attacks. Directed by Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady, the film centers around a group of young Muslim boys in Maryland who are learning to navigate a world that is increasingly fearful and suspicious of their faith.

At the heart of the film is the story of Mohammad Hussein, a 12-year old boy who dreams of becoming a successful lawyer one day. Mohammad is a deeply religious and thoughtful young man who takes his faith and his studies very seriously. However, he is also acutely aware of the prejudices and stereotypes that surround him and his community. Throughout the film, we see Mohammad struggle to reconcile his faith with the fear and mistrust that he encounters on a daily basis.

The Education of Mohammad Hussein is a film that explores the complex and often contradictory experiences of Muslim-Americans in the aftermath of 9/11. Through a series of candid interviews with young people, their families, and community leaders, the film offers a nuanced and empathetic portrait of a community that is both deeply rooted in its traditions and struggling to find its place in a changing world.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is the way in which it humanizes its subjects. Rather than painting them as victims or heroes, the filmmakers allow their stories to speak for themselves. As a result, we get a sense of the everyday challenges faced by young Muslim-Americans, from the frustration of being stopped and frisked by police for no reason to the difficulty of finding good role models in a society that often portrays Muslims in a negative light.

At the same time, the film also explores the broader social and political context in which these experiences unfold. Through interviews with experts on Islamophobia and Muslim-American relations, we get a sense of the larger forces that are shaping the lives of these young people. We learn about the ways in which government policies, media representations, and public opinion are all contributing to a climate of fear and suspicion that makes it difficult for Muslim-Americans to feel fully accepted and respected in their own country.

Despite its serious subject matter, The Education of Mohammad Hussein is also a film that is full of hope and resilience. At its core, the film is a celebration of the human spirit and the power of education to transform lives. Through the eyes of Mohammad and his peers, we see the immense potential that exists within Muslim-American communities, and the deep commitment that young people have to making a positive difference in the world.

Overall, The Education of Mohammad Hussein is a film that should be seen by everyone who cares about social justice, human rights, and the importance of understanding and empathy in today's divided world. With its powerful storytelling and its deep insight into the experiences of Muslim-American youth, this film has the power to change hearts and minds, and to inspire us all to work towards a more just and equitable future for all.

The Education of Mohammad Hussein is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 38 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5.