Watch The Illegal

The Illegal is a thought-provoking and emotional film from 2019, which follows a young man's journey through the complexities of the immigration system. The film has been lauded for its poignant portrayal of the struggles faced by immigrants, and for shining a light on an important social issue. The protagonist of The Illegal is a young man named Hassan (played by Suraj Sharma, best known for his leading role in Life of Pi). Hassan is a talented writer who dreams of studying literature and pursuing a career in writing. However, he faces numerous obstacles on his journey to achieving his goals, including financial difficulties and the difficulty of obtaining a student visa due to his unfavorable circumstances.

Hassan's story is not unique, and the film touches on broader themes of class, race, and privilege. The struggle that Hassan faces is emblematic of the experiences of millions of people around the world who are forced to flee their homelands in search of better opportunities. By portraying the human side of the immigration debate, The Illegal is a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy and compassion.

The film takes place in the bustling city of Los Angeles, which is a hub for immigrants from around the world. The hectic pace of life in the city provides a backdrop to the many struggles that Hassan and others like him face. Along the way, he meets a number of other immigrants, each with their own story to tell. These characters serve to highlight the diversity of the immigrant experience, and their interactions are a reminder of the value of community and connection.

One of the standout performances in The Illegal comes from Shweta Tripathi, who plays a fellow student and friend of Hassan's. Her character serves as a reminder of the privilege that many students from wealthier families take for granted, and she offers a stark contrast to Hassan's own struggles. Tripathi brings a raw honesty and vulnerability to her role, and her character's journey is just as important to the film's overarching themes as Hassan's.

Adil Hussain also delivers a powerful performance as an immigration lawyer who takes on Hassan's case. The lawyer's own experiences as an immigrant help to ground the film in reality, and his calm and composed demeanor is a reminder of the importance of perseverance and determination. The lawyer's interactions with Hassan are one of the highlights of the film, and his advice and guidance are an invaluable source of strength for the young writer.

Throughout the film, there is a sense of urgency and desperation that permeates almost every scene. The fear of deportation and the uncertainty of the future are ever-present, and the weight of these pressures is palpable. The Illegal does not shy away from the harsh realities of the immigration system, and the film's unflinching portrayal of the difficulties faced by so many immigrants is both honest and impactful.

Ultimately, The Illegal is a powerful and emotional film that sheds light on an often-overlooked issue. Through the eyes of its protagonist, the film explores the struggles faced by immigrants around the world, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion, empathy, and understanding. With powerful performances and a poignant story, The Illegal is a must-see film for anyone interested in exploring the intricacies of the immigration debate.

The Illegal is a 2019 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.