Ali (2025)

-Written by Kyle Bain. 

Ali is the somber tale of a young man forced to repress his beautiful talent as a result of the unfair norms and expectations of the world in which he lives. In this coastal town, women are not allowed to sing–and his methods for hiding that aforementioned talent is heinous and heartbreaking. 

In just fifteen short minutes, Writers Al Amin, Indrani Soma, and Sakib Ahmed Tuhin, along with Director Adnan Al Rajeev manage to develop a complete landscape of the world in which Ali (Amin) lives. The somber, somehow harrowing landscape envelopes viewers in the opening moments; and while we aren’t entirely sure in those opening moments what that means for our titular character, it’s abundantly clear that it’s meant to express something negative. 

What is so interesting about Ali is the fact that the steps that Ali takes throughout the course of the film never truly lead to anything. There are pieces that effectively point us in a perceived direction, but nothing definitive comes of it. What this team of writers does is create a story that sort of taps into the various struggles of the real world, pieces them together for our viewing pleasure, but reminds us, again and again, that the obstacles we face, related or not, are boundless–but surmountable. Ali avoids providing viewers with true answers, as that allows our minds to run wildly throughout the cosmos of potential. We ultimately get more out of the film as a result of the trio of writers leaving things open for interpretation. 

Furthermore, Ali manages to casually include nods to body dysmorphia and self harm. While these things are seen, they are never addressed directly–again, tasking viewers with having to dig beneath the surface and dissect the film. Cruel images of self harm (believed to be to the benefit of Ali and others) are presented to viewers aggressively. At one point, Ali’s wounds are all that viewers can see–so closely that it’s initially challenging to understand exactly what’s occurring. Being faced with something so honest, something almost tangible creates a sense of camaraderie between viewers and Ali, particularly our protagonist. Once that gap is bridged, and we are provided access to the film, it never falters. Even the moments that may feel far-fetched and initially inaccessible become something that resonates with viewers. 

The one thing I hoped would have played a more prominent role in the film is Ali’s voice. Not his singing voice, but rather I would have liked to hear him speak. Hearing him in conversation with others may have allowed us a better opportunity to understand him, rather than just the situations presented to us. Having Ali be more of a contributor to Ali would have propelled the film to a higher level and provided viewers more access to his internal conflict, rather than external representations of such. 

Ali is a film full of depth, depth that sometimes isn’t explored in full. I wish that the film had dove deeper into Ali’s inner conflict, rather than remaining on the surface throughout. With that said, however, the visuals play a pivotal role in developing this film and presenting it in a way that allows it to remain accessible, even if there is something left to be desired. 

Directed by Adnan Al Rajeev. 

Written by Al Amin, Indrani Soma, & Sakib Shmed Tuhin. 

Starring Al Amin, Indrani Soma, Sakib Shmed Tuhin, etc. 

6.5/10 = WATCH IT FOR FREE