User Score
7.8 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 10 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 10
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 10
  3. Negative: 0 out of 10

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  1. Sep 25, 2010
    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.
  2. BobW.
    Jan 18, 2010
    8
    Very subtle yet well made movie. Lead actress Nisreen Faour is very likable and performs admirably.
  3. EdwardK.
    Nov 4, 2009
    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.
  4. NickJ.
    Sep 10, 2009
    8
    A movie that beautifully captures how a woman and her family survive two harsh, cruel worlds. Hiam Abass is marvelous as Muna's homesick and cynical sister. This movie misses out on being a truly great film only by a tiny little bit. A brave film in this day and age. Bravo!
  5. Mari
    Sep 8, 2009
    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
Metascore

Generally favorable reviews - based on 23 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 23
  2. Negative: 0 out of 23
  1. 70
    When most filmmakers want to say something important about cultural conflicts, they labor to bring tears to our eyes. Dabis, by contrast, makes us laugh at ourselves and, in turn, each other.
  2. Dabis, a Palestinian-American, has thoroughly re-energized the genre with refreshing wit, honest emotions, incisive observations and a perfect cast.
  3. Reviewed by: Rob Nelson
    80
    A culture-clash dramedy whose background in Middle-East conflict is leavened with vibrant energy, balanced politics and droll humor by first-time feature director Cherien Dabis.