New Movies: To Live and Die and Live (2023) by Qasim Basir: A Visceral Journey Through Grief and Addiction in Detroit
- dailyentertainment95
- Jul 4
- 13 min read
Core Summary: A Filmmaker's Desperate Homecoming
"To Live and Die and Live" (2023) is a poignant and raw drama written, directed, and cinematographed by Qasim Basir. Premiering at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival, the film follows Muhammad (played by Amin Joseph), a successful Hollywood filmmaker who returns to his hometown of Detroit to bury his beloved stepfather and settle family accounts. Beneath his outward success and attempts to be the strong "man of the house" for his predominantly Muslim family, Muhammad is secretly battling severe depression and a spiraling addiction to cocaine and alcohol. As he navigates the complex demands of grief, family expectations, and his stepfather's unfinished business, Muhammad plunges into Detroit's vibrant yet tempting nightlife, forming an intoxicating, self-destructive relationship with Asia (Skye P. Marshall) who shares similar coping mechanisms. The film is a deeply personal exploration of loss, the struggle with addiction, the complexities of Black masculinity, and a vibrant, often unseen, portrayal of Detroit.
Snapshot: Detroit Homecoming, Hidden Addiction, and a Battle for Survival
A Hollywood filmmaker returns to Detroit for a funeral, confronting deep grief, a secret addiction, and the crushing pressure to uphold a facade, all set against a beautifully rendered, complex city.
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt24132248/
About movie: https://tolivethefilm.com/
Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/to-live-and-die-and-live (US)
Deep Dive: Beyond the Grief, Into the Unraveling Self
"To Live and Die and Live" is an ambitious and intimate character study, praised for its raw honesty and evocative portrayal of both its protagonist and its setting.
Key aspects that define "To Live and Die and Live":
Autobiographical Inspiration: Director Qasim Basir drew heavily from his own experiences with loss, particularly the passing of his stepfather and other male family members, and his return to Detroit during the pandemic. This personal connection imbues the film with profound authenticity and emotional depth.
Detroit as a Character: The film is described as a "love letter to Detroit," consciously depicting the city's beauty, vibrant nightlife, and ongoing renewal, countering typical media portrayals of blight and decay. Basir, who also served as cinematographer, uses creative filming techniques and kaleidoscopic colors to highlight this.
Themes of Grief and Addiction: At its core, the film is an unflinching look at how one man copes (or fails to cope) with immense loss through self-medication and denial. It explores the destructive cycle of addiction in a nuanced way, particularly within the context of Black male identity, avoiding common stereotypes.
Complex Masculinity: The film delves into the pressures faced by Black men to be strong, stoic providers, and the "toxic mindset of needing to deal with heavy burdens alone," as described by Basir. Omari Hardwick's character, Kevin, adds a layer of commentary on the lack of unabashed affection between Black men.
Psychological and Emotional Realism: The narrative is largely from Muhammad's perspective, reflecting his tunnel vision and detachment as his world unravels. The film aims for an earnest, albeit sometimes difficult, depiction of his struggle, making his actions understandable despite their destructive nature.
Strong Lead Performance: Amin Joseph's portrayal of Muhammad has been widely acclaimed for its "sensational nuance" and ability to convey the character's internal turmoil, functioning addiction, and deep-seated pain.
Sundance Premiere: Its debut at the prestigious 2023 Sundance Film Festival in the NEXT category speaks to its innovative and independent spirit.
"To Live and Die and Live" aims to be a multi-layered exploration of personal and communal healing, a raw and empathetic look at the human cost of unaddressed grief and the societal pressures that often compound it.
The Journey: A Spiral of Responsibility and Self-Destruction
The Reluctant Homecoming: Hollywood director Muhammad returns to Detroit for his stepfather's funeral, a figure who had a profound impact on him.
Burden of Expectations: Immediately, he is thrust into the role of "man of the house," expected to settle debts and take on his stepfather's unfinished business, adding immense pressure to his already fragile state.
The Secret Escape: To cope with the overwhelming grief and responsibility, Muhammad retreats into Detroit's vibrant, drug-saturated nightlife, indulging in cocaine and alcohol, hiding his addiction from his religious family.
A Dangerous Connection: He forms a romantic relationship with Asia, a woman who mirrors his own self-medicating tendencies, further fueling his destructive cycle.
Unraveling Facade: As his addiction deepens and financial pressures mount, Muhammad's carefully constructed facade begins to crumble, leading to strained family interactions, reckless decisions (like a drunk driving incident), and increasing isolation.
Moments of Confrontation and Revelation: Through his interactions, particularly with his family and his stepfather's associates, the underlying reasons for his pain and his inability to cope are slowly revealed, forcing him to confront his inner demons.
A Glimmer of Hope (or Ambiguity): The film aims for an honest, sometimes ambiguous, resolution, suggesting the possibility of salvation through confronting history and the toll it takes, without offering easy answers.
Director's Lens: Qasim Basir's Intimate and Visually Rich Human Study
Qasim Basir, in "To Live and Die and Live," not only directs but also serves as the cinematographer, imbuing the film with a deeply personal and visually distinct style that reflects the inner turmoil of his protagonist and the complex beauty of Detroit.
Visualizing Inner Turmoil: Basir employs creative filming techniques, including non-traditional rack focus and oblique angles, to visually represent Muhammad's mental state, confusion, and inebriation. He uses kaleidoscopic colors in nightlife scenes to draw the audience into Muhammad's intoxicated escapes.
Filmmakers aiming to portray psychological states should experiment with cinematic language beyond dialogue. Utilize camera work, lighting, color palettes, and sound design to subtly or overtly reflect a character's emotional or mental state, making the audience feel their confusion, despair, or euphoria alongside them.
Challenging Visual Stereotypes of a City: Basir deliberately showcases Detroit's beauty, renewal, and vibrant architecture, challenging the prevalent media narrative of decay. His love for his hometown is evident in the film's aesthetic.
When depicting real-world locations, directors can contribute to a richer understanding by consciously subverting common visual tropes or stereotypes. Seek out and highlight aspects of a city or community that are often overlooked, providing a more nuanced and authentic portrait that expands audience perception.
Empathetic Portrayal of Addiction and Grief: Basir approaches Muhammad's struggles with empathy, aiming to show addiction through the eyes of Black people "who aren't depicted as crackheads" and to normalize the struggle with profound loss.
Directors tackling sensitive themes like addiction, mental health, or grief should strive for empathy and avoid sensationalism or judgment. Focus on the human experience behind the condition, showing the complexities, vulnerabilities, and internal battles. This fosters a more compassionate understanding and creates a more impactful, less alienating, cinematic experience.
Central Themes: Grief, Addiction, Black Masculinity, Identity, and Detroit's Renewal
The Weight of Grief: The profound and consuming nature of loss, particularly the loss of a parental figure, and the difficulty of processing it.
Functioning Addiction and Denial: The insidious nature of addiction as a coping mechanism, especially when hidden behind a facade of success and responsibility.
Complexities of Black Masculinity: The societal pressures on Black men to be strong, stoic, and provide, often leading to suppressed emotions and a reluctance to seek help.
Identity and Belonging: Muhammad's struggle to reconcile his past in Detroit with his current Hollywood success, and his alienation from both family and community.
Detroit's Rebirth: The film's visual homage to Detroit's ongoing renewal, framing it as a symbol of hope and resilience despite underlying issues.
Intergenerational Burden: The idea of inheriting responsibilities and unresolved issues from previous generations.
Why It Shines: A Viscerally Honest Portrait of Struggle and Place
Raw Emotional Honesty: Unflinching portrayal of grief, addiction, and their destructive impact.
Stunning Cinematography: Qasim Basir's visual direction makes Detroit a character in itself.
Powerful Lead Performance: Amin Joseph delivers a compelling and vulnerable portrayal of Muhammad.
Nuanced Exploration of Black Masculinity: Tackles complex themes with sensitivity and depth.
Authentic Sense of Place: A love letter to Detroit that subverts common perceptions.
Critics Reception: Praised for Depth and Daring
"To Live and Die and Live" (2023) has received generally favorable reviews since its Sundance premiere, with critics commending Qasim Basir's ambitious vision and Amin Joseph's powerful performance.
Emotional Impact: Reviewers consistently highlight the film's profound emotional resonance, particularly its raw and empathetic portrayal of grief and addiction.
Visual Style: Basir's cinematography often receives praise for its beauty, ambition, and unique way of capturing Detroit and Muhammad's psychological state.
Lead Performance: Amin Joseph's portrayal is frequently cited as a standout, carrying the film's emotional weight and complexity.
Thematic Depth: Critics appreciate the film's willingness to delve into challenging themes of Black masculinity, intergenerational trauma, and the complexities of healing.
Flaws Noted: Some reviews mention that the film's ambitious script can be "convoluted" or that some supporting characters, particularly women, are not as fully fleshed out as the protagonist. Pacing issues were also occasionally mentioned.
Overall Summary: "To Live and Die and Live" is recognized as a bold, intimate, and emotionally affecting drama that distinguishes itself with its strong central performance, unique visual style, and courageous exploration of difficult, personal themes.
Audience Reactions: Resonating with Shared Experience of Loss and Healing
Audiences, particularly those at film festivals and early theatrical runs, have responded strongly to "To Live and Die and Live," appreciating its honesty and relatability.
Relatability of Grief: Many viewers connect with Muhammad's struggle to process loss, especially given the collective experiences of grief during recent years (e.g., the pandemic).
Empathy for Addiction: The film's non-judgmental portrayal of addiction resonates with those who have personal experience with substance abuse or know someone struggling.
Appreciation for Detroit's Portrayal: Detroit natives and those familiar with the city often commend the film for its beautiful and authentic representation.
Discussions on Masculinity: The film sparks important conversations about the pressures on men, particularly Black men, to be strong and self-reliant, and the need for vulnerability and support.
Overall Summary: "To Live and Die and Live" deeply resonates with audiences for its raw emotional honesty, sparking empathy and vital discussions around mental health, grief, and the unique challenges faced by its characters.
Box Office Performance: Independent Success with Critical Acclaim
"To Live and Die and Live" (2023) is an independent drama that had its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival. Its box office performance is measured differently than major studio releases, focusing on critical reception, festival buzz, and subsequent distribution.
Festival Launchpad: Sundance provided a crucial platform, generating significant buzz and critical attention.
Distribution: Samuel Goldwyn Films acquired the home release rights after its initial theatrical run, indicating a strategic rollout.
Limited Theatrical Release: It received a limited theatrical release in select US cities (e.g., April/May 2025), a common strategy for independent films to qualify for awards and build awareness.
VOD/Streaming Potential: Its ultimate reach will be through Video-on-Demand and streaming platforms, where it can find a broader audience.
Accolades: Strong reviews and festival awards are key indicators of success for a film of this nature, building its reputation and long-term viability.
Overall Summary: "To Live and Die and Live" is positioned as a critically acclaimed independent film, aiming for impact through its artistic merit and targeted distribution rather than large-scale commercial earnings, building its legacy through its profound themes and performances.
Production Notes: A Director's Personal & Cinematic Journey
"To Live and Die and Live" is a deeply personal project for Qasim Basir, who took on multiple roles to bring his vision to life.
Directed by: Qasim Basir
Written by: Qasim Basir
Cinematography by: Qasim Basir
Cast:
Amin Joseph as Muhammad Abdullah
Skye P. Marshall as Asia
Omari Hardwick as Kevin
Cory Hardrict as Akil
Dana Gourrier as Lisa
Maryam Basir as Iman (Qasim Basir's sister)
Jeryl Prescott as Ummi (Mother)
Roger Guenveur Smith as Reed Jennings
Producers: Nina Yang Bongiovi, Forest Whitaker, Amin Joseph, Samantha Basir, Dana Offenbach, Cory Hardrict, Omari Hardwick (among others).
Executive Producers: Datari Turner, Tommy Oliver, Tremayne Norris, Andre Gaines, Corey Ward (among many others).
Music by: Maxime Lacoste-Lebuis
Editing by: Paige Alston, Qasim Basir
Runtime: 105 minutes (1 hour 45 minutes)
Country: United States
Language: English
Filming Location: Detroit, Michigan (summer 2021)
Initial Release: January 20, 2023 (Sundance Film Festival)
US Theatrical Release: May 30, 2025
Production Companies: A Collaborative Independent Effort
AuthentiQ Films
Significant Productions
CinemaStreet Pictures
Confluential Films
Sales & Distribution: Samuel Goldwyn Films (Home Release)
US Distributor (Theatrical): Various independent distributors for limited run.
US Distributor (Home Release): Samuel Goldwyn Films
Festival Distributor: Sundance Film Festival
Release Timeline: From Festival Acclaim to Theatrical Run
January 20, 2023: World Premiere at the Sundance Film Festival.
May 30, 2025: Limited US Theatrical Release.
Post-theatrical 2025: Expected release on VOD/digital platforms.
Why See It: For a Deeply Personal and Visually Rich Drama
For its raw and authentic portrayal of grief and addiction: It's an unflinching look at human struggle.
To experience a unique visual love letter to Detroit: The city is captured with stunning, unexpected beauty.
For a powerful central performance by Amin Joseph: He embodies the character's pain and complexity.
If you appreciate films that explore complex themes of masculinity and identity: It sparks important conversations.
To witness a director's ambitious and personal vision: Qasim Basir infuses the film with his own experiences.
Why Watch: If You Seek Emotionally Resonant and Thought-Provoking Cinema
If you're drawn to character studies that delve into the psychological impacts of trauma: It offers a deep dive into Muhammad's mind.
If you want to see Detroit depicted in a fresh, vibrant, and multifaceted way: It defies common stereotypes.
To engage with a story that challenges traditional narratives of strength and coping: It promotes vulnerability and seeking help.
If you appreciate independent filmmaking that prioritizes artistic vision over commercial tropes: It's a testament to heartfelt storytelling.
For a film that explores the intersection of personal struggle, family dynamics, and cultural pressures: It offers a rich, layered narrative.
Movie Trend: Elevated Drama/Auteur-Driven Social Realism
"To Live and Die and Live" (2023) exemplifies the burgeoning movie trend of Elevated Drama/Auteur-Driven Social Realism. This trend features films that combine a strong, personal artistic vision (often from a writer-director-cinematographer like Qasim Basir) with a grounded, realistic portrayal of social issues and human experiences. Unlike earlier forms of social realism that might have been purely stark, these films often employ sophisticated cinematography and nuanced character studies to elevate their subject matter beyond simple depiction, aiming for profound emotional and intellectual impact. They explore complex themes like grief, addiction, and identity within specific cultural or community contexts, pushing boundaries both stylistically and narratively.
Social Trend: Destigmatizing Mental Health and Addiction in Black Communities
"To Live and Die and Live" (2023) directly engages with the critical social trend of Destigmatizing Mental Health and Addiction in Black Communities. Historically, discussions around mental health and substance abuse have often been marginalized or stereotyped within these communities due to various socio-cultural factors. The film's protagonist, Muhammad, is a successful Black man secretly battling severe depression and addiction, challenging the notion that these issues only affect certain demographics or manifest in predictable ways. By portraying his struggle with empathy and complexity, the film contributes to breaking down stigma, encouraging open conversations, and advocating for understanding and support for individuals facing these challenges within the Black community.
Final Verdict: A Raw and Resonant Journey Through Grief's Abyss
"To Live and Die and Live" (2023), written, directed, and cinematographed by Qasim Basir, stands as an intensely personal and profoundly moving drama that deftly navigates the treacherous landscape of grief, addiction, and identity. Premiering to acclaim at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival and receiving a limited theatrical release in May 2025 before its broader VOD rollout, the film offers a raw and unflinching portrait of Muhammad (Amin Joseph), a successful filmmaker who returns to his Detroit home only to confront his secret battle with substance abuse amidst the overwhelming weight of loss and familial expectation. Basir's audacious dual role behind the camera ensures a singular vision, capturing Detroit with a vibrant, unstereotypical beauty that both reflects and contrasts Muhammad's inner turmoil. Elevated by Amin Joseph's sensational performance, this film is a powerful and necessary exploration of Black masculinity, the silent struggles with mental health, and the complex path to healing, proving to be a cinematic experience that is as challenging as it is empathetic.
Recommendations for filmmakers: Crafting Personal Narratives with Visual Poignancy
Infuse Personal Experience for Profound Authenticity: Qasim Basir drew heavily from his own life to craft "To Live and Die and Live," lending the film an unparalleled level of emotional authenticity and depth. Filmmakers should consider mining their own experiences, vulnerabilities, and understanding of the human condition to inform their narratives, allowing personal truths to resonate universally. This approach ensures that the story feels deeply genuine and allows for a nuanced portrayal of complex emotions and situations. By bringing a piece of their soul to the screen, directors can create a profound connection with the audience, making the cinematic experience truly impactful and memorable.
Utilize Cinematography as a Direct Expression of Character's Inner World: Basir's decision to also serve as cinematographer allowed him to directly translate Muhammad's fragmented mental state and evolving perception through non-traditional camera work, color palettes, and lighting. Directors should see cinematography not just as a tool for visual storytelling, but as an extension of the character's psychology. Experimenting with frame composition, focus, movement, and color can visually articulate emotions like confusion, detachment, joy, or despair, immersing the audience directly into the protagonist's subjective reality. This technique adds layers of meaning and depth, enhancing the psychological impact of the narrative without relying solely on dialogue.
Challenge Stereotypes by Portraying Familiar Settings and Themes with Fresh Perspectives: The film consciously defies typical depictions of Detroit, showcasing its vibrancy and beauty amidst the protagonist's personal decay. Filmmakers should actively seek to subvert clichés associated with specific places, demographics, or societal issues. By presenting well-trodden ground in a new light, directors can enrich audience understanding and challenge preconceived notions. This thoughtful approach not only makes the film more authentic and engaging but also contributes to a more nuanced and representative cinematic landscape, avoiding reductive portrayals.
Recommendations for Movie Industry: Championing Raw Honesty and Diverse Realities
Invest in Auteur-Driven Social Realism that Prioritizes Nuance: "To Live and Die and Live" exemplifies how a singular artistic vision can powerfully explore complex social themes like addiction, grief, and Black masculinity with profound realism. The industry should actively seek out and fund projects from writer-directors who demonstrate a personal connection to their subject matter and a commitment to nuanced, honest portrayal over simplistic narratives. These films often push artistic boundaries and resonate deeply with audiences by offering authentic glimpses into diverse human experiences and societal challenges. By supporting such projects, the industry fosters groundbreaking cinema that is both culturally significant and artistically bold.
Amplify Diverse Voices Exploring Sensitive Themes: Qasim Basir's film tackles the often-stigmatized subjects of mental health and addiction within the Black community, doing so with empathy and complexity. The industry should prioritize empowering and providing platforms for filmmakers from underrepresented backgrounds to tell their stories, especially when these narratives address sensitive or taboo topics. Authentic representation is crucial for fostering empathy, breaking down stereotypes, and initiating vital conversations within and across communities. By investing in these voices, the industry not only broadens its appeal but also fulfills a crucial role in reflecting and shaping societal understanding.
Adopt Flexible and Targeted Distribution Strategies for Art-House Dramas: The film's journey from Sundance to a limited theatrical run and subsequent VOD release highlights an effective model for independent, critically acclaimed dramas. Distributors should continue to tailor release strategies, leveraging festival buzz for critical traction and maximizing accessibility through digital platforms, rather than forcing all films into a blockbuster model. This approach ensures that powerful, independent films find their intended audience and achieve commercial viability within their niche. By prioritizing strategic reach and impact over immediate wide theatrical returns, the industry can sustain a vibrant ecosystem for diverse, artistic, and thought-provoking cinema.
Final Conclusions: A Profound Meditation on Survival and Self-Discovery
"To Live and Die and Live" (2023), Qasim Basir's remarkable and deeply personal film, stands as a testament to cinema's power to illuminate the darkest corners of human experience with unflinching honesty and profound empathy. Having garnered critical acclaim since its Sundance premiere and now available for wider audiences, the film offers a raw, visually stunning, and emotionally resonant journey through a man's desperate battle with grief and addiction against the vibrant backdrop of Detroit. Basir's multi-faceted role as writer, director, and cinematographer infuses every frame with a unique intimacy, further elevated by Amin Joseph's extraordinary performance as a protagonist wrestling with the heavy burdens of loss, family expectations, and the corrosive pull of self-destruction. "To Live and Die and Live" is a vital and cathartic cinematic achievement that bravely confronts the silent struggles of mental health and the complex search for healing within one's own identity and community, leaving an indelible mark long after the credits roll.
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