The Illegal

The Illegal is an emotionally-charged, gritty drama written and directed by Danish Renzu that projectively explores the realities of the American Dream through the lens of immigrants in the United States.

The film stars Life of Pi’s Suraj Sharma in the role of Hassan, a young man hailing from a middle-class family in Delhi, India. He dreams of becoming a filmmaker, an aspiration stemming from his love for storytelling and a passion for cinema that exceeds beyond the norms. His dreams, perhaps too big for his small-town life, lead him to make the decision to pursue film school in Los Angeles, United States. Filled with hopes, Hassan embarks on a journey of a lifetime, leaving his family and old life behind, not knowing the challenges and struggles that await him.

Soon, the glitz and glamour of LA reveal a harsher reality. Hindrances like inflated rent, costly schooling, and expenses of living soon become a major setback for Hassan. In a less than ideal scenario, he is forced to drop out of school and finds himself working illegally for low wages to make ends meet in hope for a better tomorrow.

His job at an Indian restaurant 'Curry House’ takes him into the world of undocumented workers living on the fringes of American society. His co-workers become his new family, sharing a common immigrant experience, as they strive towards their dreams in the land of opportunities showing not only the strength of the human spirit but also the crucial boundaries of survival.

Shweta Tripathi stars as a fellow immigrant, and adversary at work, on the path to achieve her own American dream. The chemistry between Sharma and Tripathi truly brings to life the trials of their characters. Another noteworthy performance comes from Adil Hussain as the stern restaurant owner who himself had undergone the same struggle years ago. The dynamics of these characters create a complex display of ambition, survival, and life in the shadows of the law.

The movie addresses the darker aspect of achieving dreams, the price one has to pay and the losses endured throughout the journey. ‘The Illegal' not only reframes the narrative of pursuing the quintessential American dream but also highlights the desperation, struggle and often heartrending experiences that immigrants face in their bid for a better life. It captures the sweat, grit, and determination of those who dare to dream.

An amalgam of compelling storytelling, beautifully crafted scenes and stirring performances by the star cast, the film gives viewers an inside look at the human side of immigration. It presents a thoughtful exploration of the dreams and realities that co-exist in the immigrant experience.

Additionally, with cinematography by Antonio Cisneros, which tastefully captures the dichotomy of LA’s opulence and underbelly, the film splendidly paints the picture of the highs and lows of immigrant life. The film also features original music by Dylan Neely that beautifully accentuates the tone of the film.

"The Illegal" has received critical acclaim at various international film festivals. It received the Best Film award at the DC South Asian Film Festival and was named the official selection at many film festivals around the world. The film’s poignant plot, coupled with Renzu’s deft direction and storytelling capabilities, ensure that it provides more than just a visual treat.

Overall, the film tells a moving and genuine story that depicts the shades of grit, hope, and determination experienced by those who take their chances of achieving a more prosperous life. "The Illegal" is a sincere and gut-wrenching narrative about immigration and the pursuit of dreams that will resonate with audiences around the globe.