Punk Islam ? Yup, you read the title right, Taqwacore: The Birth of Punk Islam is our guide into an unknown and fascinating subculture built on contradictions, prejudices and passion. Part music tour, pamphlet and spiritual journey, Omar Majeed's documentary uses an unbelievable premise in order to present portraits of an angry and provocative youth whose fight for freedom of speech is exemplary.
The title is taken from Michael Muhammad Knight's novel The Taqwacores. His story about a Muslim punk bank quickly became a source of inspiration for young musicians who recognized themselves and decided to turn fiction into reality. Few books can claim to have such a concrete impact on life. The documentary follows Knight's journey throught the United States where he meets the different bands that form the unlikely music movement. All the characters he crosses path with are likeable persons who consider punk as the only way to express their condition as Muslims. When the project of a tour becomes the only way for them to meet and spread the word, the result is an hilarious recollection that would have made the Sex Pistols proud with angry parents, cancelled shows and problem with the law. With loud music and provocative dialogues (the audience's reaction to their songs is worth alone the price of admission), those daring musicians are not afraid to confront the strict structure of their religion and convert a few people along the way.
This is not to say Taqwacore is a condemnation of Islam. Quite the contrary. One of the film's many strenght is the depiction of the respect the protagonists shared towards their religion. Beyond all the funny elements of the documentary lies an important philosophy on belief and faith. The bands illustrate throught their songs the difficulties of living and finding yourself in a religion that can be demanding but ultimately rewarding. This love and hate relationship is the heart of their creative drive.
This short review is just showing the tip of the iceberg of what Taqwacore is about. This documentary promises to generate important debates on a religion and a music scene that is sadly seen as violent and destructive. It is quite surprising to realize how much the two cultures has in common and one can only hope the dialogue between the two will be carried over the years. It was the perfect film to open the anarchic Temps 0 section at this year's Montreal Festival du Nouveau Cinema and is highly recommended.