Documentary Review: ‘Two Gods’

Review by James Lindorf

For decades the existence of the “school-to-prison pipeline” has funneled children from public schools and into the juvenile and adult criminal justice systems. This leads to a seemingly never-ending cycle of ruined lives and broken homes. The effect is most profound in minority and economically depressed populations. Though it often feels insurmountable from the halls of the ACLU to the community streets, some people are fighting back trying to save future generations. In Zeshawn Ali’s feature-length debut “Two Gods,” we see one man’s struggle to make a difference. “Two Gods” will launch in select theaters and virtual cinemas nationwide beginning on Friday, May 21st.

Hanif is an older man who spent his youth in and out of trouble. Later in life, he has dedicated himself to three things to do what he considers the right thing. Firstly, he has committed himself to his Islamic faith in both his personal and professional life. The second thing Hanif takes pride in his job as a casket maker and ritual body washer. The third and perhaps most important of these commitments is his role as a determined mentor to local kids. In “Two Gods,” we see him working with Furquan, an overly confident 12-year-old who comes from a rough home, and Naz, a 17-year-old who has been fighting through his own struggles after the passing of his grandmother.

Without knowing anything about the story being told within its 82-minute runtime, you can see why “Two Gods” was a festival standout. This is not the flat black and white of yesteryear; this is a deep, rich, and stunning use of whites, blacks, and greys. Emir Fils-Aime and Ali, who served as co-cinematographers, created an exquisite-looking film that mirrors the ways its subjects are trying to live. Yearning for the light, fighting against the dark, and spending most of the time somewhere in between. Almost any frame could find its way into an artist’s portfolio or even the wall of a gallery.

“Two Gods” is almost as moving as it is beautiful. It speaks to the struggle and resilience of youth. With the right help, they can overcome almost anything. However, they can’t do it alone, it takes the love and generational knowledge of their community to break the cycle. “Two Gods” offers an honest look at a bleak situation. It does provide hope. But will not let you believe that everyone will be saved and that our heroes are not incapable of falling into a downward spiral of their own. “Two Gods” is a solid 4 out of 5 and should be just the first step in what is sure to be a bright career for Ali.