This week’s movie was a long time coming, and finally, that day has come. The adage that if there’s a will there way is true- at least in this case. Welcome to another weekly TV or movie review. If this is your first time, join the discussion by leaving a comment and/or like. If you’re a repeat patron, welcome back! Likes and comments are much appreciated. This we’ll be looking at The film Arab Blues.

Love At The First Blow
Set in Tunisia, Selma Derwich or Madam Selma has returned home after a
pilgrimage through France. She quickly realizes she’s not in Kansas anymore, and to survive she must learn to play nice with locals. Personal space is the first to go when she is forced to do an alcohol test without a breathalyze. A swoon-worth almost kiss quickens the affection between her and Officer Naim.

Though her work as a psychoanalyst is indeed priceless, her all-important self can’t ignore the law. Despite her prestigious French education, practicing without proper licenses is still frowned upon. She is forced to deal with paper pushers whose answer to everything is, “Inshallah.” At least she was smart enough not to piss them off. I personally would have packed up my shit at the first sign of trouble. From the jump, her family was telling her she wouldn’t last, but of course by sheer spite -and movie logic- she succeeds in establishing her practice.

A Political Prisoner, Baker & Hair Dresser
What do they all have in common? Problems. Ferid Oueslati, a 42-year-old man who spent five in prison after confessing something random that landed him in jail, no longer trusts. Hairdresser Babya is a successful business, happily married, and loves her children, but she detests her mother-in-law to the extent of committing murder- in her dreams of course! Raouf, a baker mishandled as a child struggles with his identity.

I commiserated with her niece, Olfa, frustrations as I too desire to break out of my norms and see the world for myself; however, I wouldn’t be as bold to go as far as marrying my gay best friend to escape.

Anypoops, I give Arab Blues a fresh rose out of Quing Mirai’s private garden.