Mon. March 9

Samad Naamad is a restauranteur and nascent film-maker and he's combining the best of both worlds. There's a free screening of his film "Demon Shadow," which he wrote and directed at the Brattle Theater Monday March 9 at 6, followed by a reception at his latest - as they call it - "entertainment venture," Koullshi Lounge, next to Tangierino in Charlestown.  Here's the scoop on the movie: Demon Shadow follows the character of Hassan, as he seeks his dream of becoming a Hollywood star, and instead finds himself conflicted between staying true to his culture and struggling to adapt to his new one. Hassan begins his journey in America, realizing that the world is more complicated than the one he once knew before. His actions towards his goal lead him away from the person he was, and introduces him to a vicious world of betrayal and injustice... And his Shadow emerges. We now from the title of the movie that this may not be a happy Shadow, don't we? Hassan's dreams begin to slip away; the Shadow taunts him, reminding him of whom he was once and who he is becoming. It's time for a showdown. Are we going to tell you who wins this bout? No way, Jose.

It's all about the duality of human nature. The characters of Hassan and

the Shadow, exchange heated dialogues questioning each others beliefs and dreams. The Shadow arrives as the one who comprehends the world around them, watching Hassan's rapid and immoral reach for fame.  As both characters attempt to destroy each other, struggling for one's desire for fame, and the other's desire for faith in his own vision. 

40 Brattle St., Cambridge, 617-599-2793 www.tangierino.com