Amreeka
Amreeka Image
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Metascore
73 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 23 Critics What's this?

User Score
7.8 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 10 Ratings

Your Score
0 out of 10
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  • Summary: Amreeka chronicles the adventures of Muna, a single mother who leaves the West Bank with Fadi, her teenage son, with dreams of an exciting future in the promised land of small town Illinois. In America, as her son navigates high school hallways the way he used to move through military checkpoints, the indomitable Muna scrambles together a new life cooking up falafel burgers as well as hamburgers at the local White Castle. (National Geographic Cinema Ventures)… Expand

Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 23
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 23
  3. Negative: 0 out of 23
  1. Entertainment Weekly
    Reviewed by: Lisa Schwarzbaum
    91
    Amreeka is strategically inviting and carefully mild even when making unsubtle points about Palestinian suffering and American insensitivity.
  2. Village Voice
    Reviewed by: Ella Taylor
    80
    There's nothing bitter or cynical about Amreeka, which is directed with impish wit, an observant visual competence, and an open, conciliatory spirit.
  3. The Hollywood Reporter
    Reviewed by: Kirk Honeycutt
    80
    Dabis, a Palestinian-American, has thoroughly re-energized the genre with refreshing wit, honest emotions, incisive observations and a perfect cast.
  4. Time Out New York
    Reviewed by: Stephen Garrett
    60
    If the story were more arresting, and the filmmaking more original, then the notions of post-9/11 assimilation might be more compelling. As it stands, the movie just serves up another warmed-over Ellis Island rehash.

See all 23 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. Mari
    10
    Amreeka is genius not only because it offers the viewer a glimpse into the real life struggle of immigrants attempting to make in America, but also because it provides the necessary elements to draw the viewer in and entertain them- no matter what their background may be. Dealing with very serious elements such as the aftermath of the invasion of Iraq and the conflicts in the middle east is no easy task, but Cherien Dabis was able to do so in an optimistic and honest manner. Showing the reality of the human condition in a very humorous and real way. Yes, I was left with a better understanding of Arab-Americans and their struggles. But more importantly I was entertained and moved by the strong ensemble of characters and humbled by their struggle. At the end of it all, I felt that the film educated me, and thoroughly entertained me. I would highly recommend this to everyone.… Expand
  2. EdwardK.
    8
    Amreeka is an insightful view into the life of immigrants to America. It is short on plot, and nothing really gets resolved, but the characters are interesting and the performances are convincing.… Expand
  3. BobW.
    8
    Very subtle yet well made movie. Lead actress Nisreen Faour is very likable and performs admirably.
  4. nutterjr
    7
    Dabis is lucky to have such a wonderful cast on the debut film as director But this story about post 9/11 xenophobic America feels patchy at times and does not avoid the trap of introducing Hollywood-esque feel-good moments in an otherwise strong drama.… Expand

See all 5 User Reviews

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