The east meets the west in cinema : the immigrant's challenges in house of sand and fog (2003)‎

Abstract EN

Immigration is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that has been the subject of much academic and public debate.

it involves the movement of people from one country or region to another, often in search for better economic opportunities, political stability, or personal freedom.

the experiences of immigrants are shaped by a variety of factors, including their cultural background, socioeconomic status, and the context in which they settle.

one important way in which immigration is portrayed in popular culture is through cinema, which has the power to evoke emotions, challenge assumptions, and offer insights into the human life experiences.

one film that offers a powerful portrayal of the experiences of middle-eastern immigrants in the united states is house of sand and fog (2003).

directed by Vadim Perelman and based on the novel by Andre Dubus III, the film tells the story of Behrani, an Iranian immigrant, and Kathy, an American recovering drug addict, whose lives intersect when a bureaucratic error results in the sale of Kathy's house.

this article analyses the film as a case study of middle eastern immigration in the united states, using a thematic and aesthetic analysis.

the focal point is how the film portrays the experiences of immigrants, and how it addresses issues such as displacement, cultural exchange, and the search for identity.

the study argues for the importance of locating immigration between opportunity and challenge, namely for the middle eastern immigrants in the united states.