From Stage to Screen
Dramedy “Pomegranate” slated for March release
Freestyle Digital Media, the digital film distribution division of Byron Allen’s Allen Media Group, has acquired the VOD rights to the acclaimed dramedy Pomegranate. The film, which explores the complex cultural dynamics between Iraqi Muslims and Chaldeans (Iraqi Christians) in suburban Michigan during the 2016 U.S. presidential election, will be available to rent or own on all global digital HD platforms—including cable and satellite—on March 4, 2025. In addition, it will be released on DVD the same day. The release also coincides with the observance of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day on March 8, 2025.
Pomegranate centers around 20-year-old Niran, an Iraqi Muslim refugee living with her family in a predominantly Christian Iraqi suburb of Detroit, known colloquially as “Little Baghdad.” The film explores Niran’s internal and external struggles as she navigates her identity as a politically liberal young woman in a conservative, traditional community. She’s caught between the cultural expectations of her Muslim family and her desire to live a life of independence and self-expression.
Niran’s world is further complicated by her relationship with Mary, a politically conservative Christian who lives directly across the street and has a large “Make America Great Again” sign next to a Virgin Mary statue in her front yard. The stark contrast between the two women’s worldviews highlights the cultural and ideological divides in their community. As Niran seeks to redefine herself, she draws inspiration from Enheduanna, the first known writer in history, and a priestess from Ancient Mesopotamia, in an effort to find her own voice amidst the chaos.
Set against the backdrop of the highly charged political climate of the 2016 U.S. election, Pomegranate is a poignant exploration of cultural clash, personal growth, and the power of women’s voices. The film’s narrative is a timely reflection on how identity, religion, and political beliefs intersect and shape individual lives, especially for women in immigrant communities.
Written and directed by Weam Namou, a Chaldean woman who has firsthand knowledge of the culture she is portraying, Pomegranate is the first narrative film by Iraqi-Americans to be led by a team from the community it represents. Namou, whose previous work has garnered widespread attention, shared her thoughts on the significance of the film: “Pomegranate is more than a movie, it’s a window into the authentic lives of Middle Easterners, especially women, who have long been confined to stereotypes. By understanding the beauty, struggles, and resilience of these lives, we open the door to a more connected, compassionate world.”
The film was produced by Sam Sako and executive produced by Scott Rosenfelt, known for his work on iconic films such as Home Alone and Mystic Pizza. The talented ensemble cast of Pomegranate includes Sam Rahmani as Niran, Zain Shami as Hassina, Ismail Taher as Ali, Natally Boutrus as Mary, Lamar Babi as Matthew, Basim Alameen as Sermad, Amanda Kashat as Nisreen, and Jordyn Kashat as Fatima. The performances bring to life the intricate dynamics between the characters, capturing the complex emotions of individuals caught in the crossfire of competing cultural and political pressures.
Pomegranate has already been recognized by the international film community, winning over 30 prestigious awards worldwide. The film has been praised for its nuanced portrayal of immigrant life, its emotional depth, and its exploration of the complexities surrounding identity and belonging in a multicultural society.
The film’s success underscores the growing demand for diverse narratives that reflect the experiences of underrepresented communities. As such, Pomegranate is not only a personal journey for its characters but also a significant step forward in the broader movement for more authentic and inclusive storytelling in the film industry.