Radio Dreams
CAST: Lars Ulrich, Larry Laverty, Kyle Kernan DIRECTOR: Babak Jalali TCC DIVERSITY FILM SERIES
Hamid (actor/musician Mohsen Namjoo) immigrates to the U.S. to pursue his writing career and the American Dream. Instead, he winds up working at a small Iranian radio station, seeking artistic satisfaction through the esoteric programming he puts together for his radio audience. Meanwhile, the owners of the station try to cash in on Hamid's only program that they see fit for commercial success--the bringing together of an on-air jam session with Kabul Dreams and their long-time idols, Metallica. The ensuing collision between artistic integrity and crass commercialism resonates with hilarity and a poignant message, as Hamid fights to maintain a balance between his ambitions and his moral compass.
Post Film Discussion
There will be a community discussion hosted by the Tacoma Community College following the 2 PM screening in the lower lobby of The Grand Cinema. Post-film discussions at The Grand Cinema offer you a richer experience at the movies with the opportunity to connect with others who enjoy film and meaningful conversations.
Royami is the heart of the film: It is his sincere and artistically principled dream of a musical union between East and West, between Metallica and Kabul Dreams, that fuels the film's engine.Catherine Bray, Variety
Jalali has created something beautiful from not much in this low budget, sometimes whimsical, sometimes moving day in the life. These uncomfortable moments lead us to a better understanding of people with whom we have no common cultural lexicon.Bradley Gibson, Film Threat
Babak Jalali's dramedy is an affirmation of the trans-cultural aspect of art, but also notes the irresolvable sadness when one no longer resides in the homeland that once fed one's soul.Al Hoff, Pittsburgh City Paper
