Watch Fordson: Faith, Fasting, Football

Fordson: Faith, Fasting, Football is a 2011 documentary film directed by Rashid Ghazi that chronicles the lives of four high school football players in the city of Dearborn, Michigan. The film takes place during the Holy month of Ramadan, a time when Muslims around the world observe a strict fast from sunrise to sunset. The focus of the film is on the team at Fordson High School, a public school that is home to a large Muslim population. The football team is an important part of the school's culture and tradition, and the film explores the unique challenges that the Muslim players face in balancing their faith and their passion for the game.

Throughout the film, viewers get a glimpse into the everyday lives of these young men and their families. We see them praying, studying the Quran, and participating in community events. Ghazi also explores the role that faith plays in the lives of the players and their families, showcasing the various ways in which they incorporate their faith into their daily routines.

Of course, the main focus of the film is on the football team itself. We see the players training, practicing, and playing games, all while observing the strict Ramadan fast. The filmmakers do an excellent job of capturing the excitement and intensity of the games, with dramatic slow-motion shots of the players in action.

The film is also notable for the way that it challenges the stereotypes and misconceptions that many people have about Muslim-Americans. Throughout the film, we see the players and their families grappling with issues of identity, belonging, and discrimination. We also see them confronting the negative headlines and media coverage that too often paint Muslims as enemies of the United States.

One of the standout themes of the film is the idea of sacrifice. This is especially apparent in the way that the players and their families observe the Ramadan fast, which requires them to give up food and water during daylight hours for an entire month. However, the idea of sacrifice extends beyond just the fast. The players and their families sacrifice time, energy, and resources in order to support the team and make sure that they have what they need to succeed.

Overall, Fordson: Faith, Fasting, Football is an inspiring and thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on a community that is often misunderstood and undervalued. It is a powerful reminder of the resilience and passion of the human spirit, and the ways in which sport can bring people together across cultures, religions, and backgrounds.