Ali Zaoua: Prince of the Streets

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William L Though Ali Zaoua may have lost some of its international acclaim since making the rounds at international film festivals upon release, it remains a touching portrayal of urban homelessness (notably, in a distinctly non-American environment). Characters exist in scrappy environments where the sole escape seems to be either through a high or pure fantasy, as society and their families have determined that they are of insufficient value to redeem; in attempting to bury their friend, Ali's friends reflect upon his legacy and ambitions (often exaggerating his capabilities and accomplishments), seeing in his death their own bleak fates. Any form of true escape, especially self-betterment, is met with hostility, particularly from those that are suffering under similar circumstances. Thematically traditional, but well-executed with good performances from the child actors involved; the sporadic animated segments with their childish whimsy are a surprising treat. (3.5/5) Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 08/02/21 Full Review S R 1001 movies to see before you die. Showing the Moroccan homeless children's plight. A bit far fetched for me having been to Casablanca and I never saw those kinds of situations / poverty. It was on Internet Archive. Rated 3/5 Stars •  Rated 3 out of 5 stars 09/12/23 Full Review Audience Member Although there are some well-shot passages here, the film never seems to want to do more than find the most effective way to generate some sadness. But the emotions aren't well-earned, because this material has been done before, and they don't stay with the viewer once the film is done. Rated 2.5/5 Stars •  Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars 02/20/23 Full Review Audience Member I've watched the City of God.. But this movie has its own plot with the same scenario.. Amazing! Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 02/16/23 Full Review Audience Member Still haven't watched "City of God", the standard to which movies like this are held. As such, I liked this movie pretty well on its own. Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 02/16/23 Full Review Audience Member You know you're in trouble when the film kills off its best character in the first five minutes. Cheaply won sentiment is the rule here, which is too bad, as the setting and circumstances seem ripe for a good film. As a result of the many poor and obvious decisions by the filmmakers, the film feels exploitative of the plight of street kids in Casablanca and the world over. The brief animated sequences were a terrific touch, but otherwise, just see Los Olvidados instead. Rated 2.5/5 Stars •  Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars 01/26/23 Full Review Read all reviews

Ali Zaoua: Prince of the Streets

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