Watch The Sheik and I

The Sheik and I is a 2012 American documentary film directed by Caveh Zahedi, who also appears in the film as its protagonist. The film documents Zahedi's experience of being commissioned by a Middle Eastern Biennial to make a film, but with a catch - the film must not criticize the sheik, who is the sponsor of the Biennial. Zahedi, a boundary-breaking filmmaker, accepts the commission with an intention to create an unconventional and daring documentary on the Biennial and the sheik. However, he is faced with several unexpected obstacles along the way, including resistance from the Biennial's organizers and the local authorities.

Despite the threats of legal action and even imprisonment, Zahedi perseveres and continues to film, often in secret. The resulting film is a quirky and thought-provoking examination of both artistic freedom and the cultural divide between the West and the Middle East.

Throughout the film, Zahedi interviews various individuals involved in the Biennial, including artists, curators, and administrators. He also spends time with the locals, often encountering resistance and misunderstanding due to cultural differences and language barriers.

The film is shot in a guerrilla-style, as Zahedi and his crew navigate their way through the Biennial and its surroundings, constantly on the lookout for threats and obstacles. This adds a sense of urgency and intensity to the film, as viewers are constantly aware of the risks involved in Zahedi's endeavor.

One of the most interesting aspects of The Sheik and I is the way in which it blurs the lines between reality and fiction. At times, the film presents itself as a straightforward documentary, but at other times, it includes staged scenes, interviews with fictional characters, and even a musical number.

This playful approach to filmmaking is typical of Zahedi's work, and it adds an extra layer of complexity to The Sheik and I. It allows him to explore deeper issues of authority and representation, while also challenging the conventions of the documentary form.

Overall, The Sheik and I is a fascinating and entertaining film that raises important questions about artistic freedom, cultural exchange, and the power of censorship. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in filmmaking, Middle Eastern culture, or the intersection of politics and art.

The Sheik and I is a 2012 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 44 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5 and a MetaScore of 51.