'The Idol': Sweet story of showbiz grit from director of hard-hitting 'Omar'

Palestinian filmmaker Hany Abu-Assad (Omar, Paradise Now) is best known for his uncompromising political thrillers about terrorism. He expands his range with The Idol, a heartwarming, fact-based story about Gaza singer Mohammad Assaf's unlikely Arab Idol win.

While its rather formulaic second half relies on clichés about underdogs' triumphing against the odds, The Idol opens with a terrific look at Assaf's childhood that has the feel of Stand By Me.

Charismatic child actor Qais Atallah stars as a 10-year-old Assaf, whose older sister, Nour (Hiba Atallah), persuades him to form a pop band. Wondrous adventures follow, but it all turns to dust when Nour becomes gravely ill.

The film then jumps 20 years to find an embittered Assaf (Tawfeek Barhom) driving a cab. Both he and his war-torn hometown have been beaten down by fate. Then a chance meeting puts Assaf back on track and more determined to make it in showbiz.

Fans of Abu-Assad's earlier films may be puzzled by his subject matter, but they needn't worry that he has gone soft. In his hands, Assaf's story is a tribute to the indomitable spirit of Gaza's citizens, who have endured violence and destruction at the hands of both their radicalized compatriots and Israel's security forces.

tirdad@phillynews.com
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MOVIE REVIEW

The Idol

3 stars (Out of four stars)

Parent's guide: Not rated (some violence, profanity, smoking).

Playing at: Ritz at the Bourse.