“My Uncle Jens” Premieres at SXSW 2025: A Thought-Provoking Exploration of Immigration
At SXSW 2025, audiences were introduced to “My Uncle Jens,” a powerful film that delves into the life of an immigrant trying to navigate the complicated system of asylum and belonging. This feature film, which marks the debut of director and screenwriter Brwa Vahabpour, is a Norwegian-Romanian collaboration that brings a personal and poignant story to the screen. Drawing on Vahabpour’s own experiences as an Iranian Kurd, the film weaves a compelling narrative about the struggles of fitting into a new country while carrying the weight of a painful past. The Plot of “My Uncle Jens” The story follows Akam (Peiman Azizpour), a young literature teacher in Oslo, Norway, who finds his life upended by the sudden arrival of his estranged uncle, Khdr (Hamza Agoshi), who has adopted the Norwegian name “Jens” to better blend in. This name change, though seemingly small, symbolizes the identity struggles faced by many immigrants who are trying to fit into a foreign culture. Jens’s unexpected visit to Akam’s cramped apartment raises suspicions. Akam’s initial shock soon turns to frustration as his uncle, who has no real connection to Akam or his family, makes himself at home, disregarding boundaries and norms. From constantly smoking and leaving messes to taking Akam’s only bed, Jens seems to have no intention of leaving, despite claiming that his visit is temporary. As the days pass, Akam begins to uncover unsettling details about his uncle’s life in Norway. He learns that Jens has been frequenting a local café owned by Hussein, and it soon becomes clear that his uncle might be staying longer than expected—and possibly even illegally. Akam’s concern deepens when he suspects that his uncle’s status in Norway could lead to serious consequences for both of them. An Exploration of Immigration “My Uncle Jens” effectively highlights the psychological and personal struggles that come with immigration, particularly when an individual is forced to assume a new identity to survive. The film touches on themes of displacement, guilt, and the harsh realities faced by those seeking asylum in a foreign land. As Akam learns more about the immigration laws in Norway, he becomes increasingly conflicted. The rules for visitors are strict: proof of return to the country of origin, employment, and proper documentation are required for a legal stay. This information, provided by Elena (Sarah Frances Braenne), an immigration officer with whom Akam forms a relationship, only complicates Akam’s decision on whether to turn his uncle in. The film takes a sharp turn when Akam contemplates turning his uncle in anonymously, but a moment of realization stops him—if he does so, he would implicate himself as well. The pressure of making a morally and legally difficult decision builds throughout the film, culminating in a tense confrontation between Akam and his uncle. A Complicated Family Dynamic Beyond the broader themes of immigration, “My Uncle Jens” is a story about family, identity, and loyalty. Akam’s relationship with his uncle is strained, and the arrival of Jens forces him to confront the complexities of his own identity as an immigrant. Akam’s father was a Peshmerga Freedom Fighter, and his family history has always been tied to struggle and resistance. In contrast, his uncle’s journey is marked by trauma and survival, showing how deeply the past shapes the present. The dynamic between Akam and his uncle is both tense and heartbreaking. Jens’s backstory—his dangerous escape from Iran, his time in refugee camps, and the ultimate rejection of his asylum application—adds depth to his character. His actions, although often frustrating and invasive, stem from a place of desperation and survival. This complexity makes Jens both a sympathetic and antagonistic figure. The Immigrant Experience in Focus The film underscores the very real and human costs of immigration, showing not only the legal and bureaucratic hurdles but also the emotional toll it takes on the individual. Uncle Jens’s journey from Iran to Norway—through Istanbul and Greece, facing rejection and uncertainty—mirrors the struggles of countless immigrants trying to find a safer, better life in a new country. The film uses symbolism, such as a modernized version of the fairy tale Three Billy Goats Bluff, written by one of Akam’s students, to reflect the harsh realities faced by immigrants trying to fit into a foreign culture. The story within the story highlights the challenges of language barriers, cultural misunderstandings, and the psychological toll of trying to belong. A Cinematic Achievement “My Uncle Jens” is a beautifully crafted film, with strong performances, a compelling script, and striking cinematography by Jorgen Kluver. The music by Kastel complements the narrative, enhancing the emotional depth of the story. Both Peiman Azizpour (Akam) and Hamza Agoshi (Jens) deliver outstanding performances, bringing their characters to life in a way that feels both raw and authentic. One detail that may seem odd is the use of an old-fashioned wall phone, which seems out of place in a modern-day setting. However, this could be a deliberate choice by director Vahabpour to create a sense of nostalgia or to symbolize the cyclical nature of Akam’s story, as the phone rings at both the beginning and end of the film. Final Thoughts “My Uncle Jens” is more than just a film about immigration—it is a poignant exploration of the personal and emotional struggles that immigrants face when they are forced to leave everything behind in search of a better life. It speaks to the universal desire for safety, belonging, and the pursuit of dreams in a new world, while also addressing the harsh realities of what it means to be an immigrant. Brwa Vahabpour’s debut feature film tackles difficult questions about identity, family, and the immigrant experience with sensitivity and depth. The film reminds us that, at its core, immigration is not just about paperwork and legalities, but about the very real lives and dreams of the people involved. Through its nuanced portrayal of Akam, Jens, and their complex relationship, My Uncle Jens offers a powerful commentary on the immigrant journey—one that resonates on a deeply human level.
