
Sharia 2016
In *Sharia* (2016), director Anouar H. Smaine crafts a poignant drama about Sofiane, an Arab immigrant in the U.S. who has long distanced himself from his cultural and religious roots.
Director: Anouar H. Smaine
Cast






Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sharia (2016) about?
The film follows Sofiane, an Arab immigrant living in the U.S., whose life is disrupted when his American wife converts to Islam. As she embraces her new faith, Sofiane struggles to reconcile his own complicated relationship with religion and tradition, leading to a quiet but intense personal reckoning.
Who directed Sharia?
Anouar H. Smaine directed *Sharia*, bringing a nuanced perspective to the immigrant experience and the intersection of culture and faith.
Who stars in Sharia?
The cast features Said Faraj as Sofiane, Lauren Byrnes as Heather, and Mike Batayeh in a supporting role, among others.
Is Sharia (2016) worth watching?
As a compact but impactful drama, *Sharia* offers a thoughtful exploration of faith and identity, though its short runtime may limit deeper development. Its themes and performances make it a compelling watch for fans of character-driven stories.
How long is Sharia?
The film runs for 39 minutes.
Sharia (2016): A Drama of Faith and Identity — Full Movie Info
In *Sharia* (2016), director Anouar H. Smaine crafts a poignant drama about Sofiane, an Arab immigrant in the U.S. who has long distanced himself from his cultural and religious roots. When his American wife, Heather, embraces Islam and begins altering their lifestyle, Sofiane feigns support—though her newfound devotion slowly stirs buried memories of his own painful past. As Heather's faith deepens, it forces Sofiane to confront unresolved conflicts, challenging their relationship and forcing him to reckon with the traditions he once left behind.
The film unfolds with quiet tension, blending intimate domestic drama with broader themes of identity, faith, and the immigrant experience. Smaine's direction grounds the story in authenticity, while the cast—led by Said Faraj and Lauren Byrnes—delivers powerful performances that heighten the emotional stakes. *Sharia* is a reflective exploration of how spirituality can reshape lives, even when the past is better left undisturbed.