Haunted by Guilt, Searching for Peace

Read Time:4 Minute, 57 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Almost Home
–

Genre: Drama, War, Self-Discovery
Year Released: 2025
Runtime: 20m
Director(s): Menhaj Huda
Writer(s): Kamal Khan
Cast: Kamal Khan, Bernard White, Erica Ibsen, Aleena Khan, Rayaan Kamal Khan
Where to Watch: for showings, please check www.almosthomemovie.com

RAVING REVIEW: ALMOST HOME opens with an intensity that doesn’t come from gunfire or explosions but from the silence of a man’s haunted mind. At just 20 minutes, this short film confronts a reality that persists with you: the wars many veterans fight don’t end on foreign soil. Director Menhaj Huda and writer-performer Kamal Khan craft a deeply personal story that tackles identity, trauma, and community in ways that feel both universal and yet also specific.

The narrative follows Aamir, a decorated Muslim-American Marine played by Khan himself, who returns to the United States carrying a weight far heavier than his uniform. PTSD, guilt, and memories of a tragic event cling to him with unrelenting force. What makes ALMOST HOME stand out is its refusal to sensationalize. Instead of leaning on spectacle, it delivers something quieter but just as devastating—a soldier’s internal war against prejudice, self-doubt, and the invisible wounds of combat.

One of the film’s most striking elements is its intent. The project is a “social impact film,” and that framing is crucial. ALMOST HOME is not simply a character study; it’s also an act of resistance against Hollywood’s portrayals of Muslim men. In his director’s statement, Huda explains that Muslims have too often been reduced to extremes onscreen, trapped between stereotypes of violence or otherness. This film instead embraces nuance—Aamir is a hero, a victim, a brother, and a man broken by experiences no one should carry alone.

The film benefits from Huda’s direction. Huda brings a blend of realism and precision to this project. His background in both drama and stylized television action gives ALMOST HOME a polished look without sacrificing intimacy. The cinematography by Thomas M. Harting reinforces that intent, balancing the bleakness of Aamir’s nightmares with the stillness of his everyday struggle.

Kamal Khan, as both writer and lead actor, grounds the film with authenticity. His portrayal of Aamir isn’t theatrical—it’s weary, understated, and painfully believable. The supporting cast, including Bernard White and Erica Ibsen, helps add texture without overshadowing the central journey. There’s a natural feel to their presence, a reminder that trauma doesn’t exist in isolation—it ripples through families and communities.

ALMOST HOME succeeds in exploring how identity can fracture under the weight of expectation. Aamir faces prejudice not just from the larger society but, painfully, from within his own community. The film captures how these struggles push him into a lonely corner, where night terrors and guilt become his constant companions. Yet there’s a thread of hope woven through the story. In confronting his demons, Aamir also begins a journey of self-discovery—a reminder that resilience can emerge from the darkest places.

At 20 minutes, it’s more of a snapshot than a fully fleshed-out narrative. Viewers may feel that just as they’re sinking into Aamir’s world, the story ends. The brevity enhances the intensity but also restricts the film’s ability to dive deeper into secondary relationships or offer more resolution. In many ways, it feels like the foundation for a feature-length expansion. The themes, performances, and intentions are strong enough that one wishes there were more room to breathe.

What the short accomplishes within its runtime is admirable. Its balance of personal story and broader social mission creates a layered impact. On one level, it’s the story of a man haunted by a single tragic event; on another, it’s a critique of how entire communities are framed in American media. This dual purpose elevates ALMOST HOME beyond just another short—it feels like part of a conversation that is long overdue.

The project’s stated goal of connecting with the veteran community and raising awareness about mental health is reinforced through its intent. This is art with purpose, storytelling that doubles as a call to empathy. In the end, ALMOST HOME works not because it yells its message, but because it whispers it with conviction. It’s about the unspoken battles carried home by soldiers, about the prejudice that can fracture already wounded lives, and about the necessity of telling stories too often ignored. For all its brevity, it’s a film that lingers, urging audiences to rethink the narratives they’ve been handed.

Please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestr for more reviews.

You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. My social media accounts can also be found on most platforms by searching for 'Overly Honest Reviews'.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please don't hesitate to say hello or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of ALMOST HOME FILM, RISING TIDES FILMS]

DISCLAIMER:
At Overly Honest Movie Reviews, we value honesty and transparency. Occasionally, we receive complimentary items for review, including DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Vinyl Records, Books, and more. We assure you that these arrangements do not influence our reviews, as we are committed to providing unbiased and sincere evaluations. We aim to help you make informed entertainment choices regardless of our relationship with distributors or producers.

Amazon Affiliate Links:
Additionally, this site contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. This affiliate arrangement does not affect our commitment to honest reviews and helps support our site. We appreciate your trust and support in navigating these links.