Three Veils

I was very moved by Three Veils. I found it to be carefully crafted and very well executed, skillfully revealing the hearts of three Muslim women living in America who, although related by friendship, are in very different circumstances.

The film begins, as relationships often begin, with optimism and good dose of humor. As the film progresses, we peer behind each woman's "veil" in turn, learning more about her history, her hopes, her wounds, her heart. In the process the light-hearted humor gives way to tenderness, heartbreak and compassion. I enjoyed the deliberate pace of the movie, which was slow without dragging. It felt respectful: the way you would get to know someone over time, building the trust necessary to truly see into her heart.

I think Angela Zahra did a remarkable job portraying Amira; Amira is a tender soul who will remain in my heart for some time. And Sheetal Sheth gave an excellent performance as Nikki. Nikki could've easily turned into a caricature, but Sheth portrayed her with both passion and restraint, ultimately revealing her gentle nature. The supporting cast also gave fine performances, making the film well-rounded and complete.

The characters are Muslim; some of their circumstances may be unfamiliar to non-Muslim audiences. But their hearts are the hearts of every woman; the women themselves are as familiar as the woman in the mirror. I look forward to seeing Three Veils a second, and perhaps a third, time to savor the depth of it.