An Evening of Film with Usman Ally and Mouzam Makkar

Experience a thought-provoking evening of film, dialogue, and community! Join world‑renowned actors and filmmakers Usman Ally and Mouzam Makkar for an exploration of contemporary issues and real-world stresses that challenge our perspectives. Enjoy special screenings of their acclaimed short films EMIGRE/AMERICANA (Ally) and MAGGIE’S NOT OK (Makkar), accompanied by a pop-up musical experience, a panel with the creators, and a warm reception to round out our evening.

This one‑of‑a‑kind gathering invites us to connect, reflect, and share in a night of culture, artistry, and fellowship. Come be part of a community brought together through these timeless narratives.

The Films:

EMIGRE/AMERICANA by Usman Ally: In the midst of America’s rising anti-immigrant climate, a Pakistani asylum seeker is fighting for his future. With his legal immigration status hanging by a thread, he scrambles to deliver the final document to immigration authorities—his last chance for safety. But as he races against time, every step forward is met with unexpected obstacles that threaten not just his hopes for a new life, but his very survival. That is, until he meets someone who sees him for who he truly is—a person, not a problem—and offers him a glimmer of hope that, perhaps, there is still light at the end of the tunnel.

MAGGIE’S NOT OK by Mouzam Makkar: Maggie, a chronic people pleaser, is always getting pushed around. But when she tries to return a lost cat to its owner, Maggie is finally pushed too far and decides to push back… in a most unexpected way.

The Artists:

Usman Ally (Writer, Director, “EMIGRE/AMERICANA”) is an Obie Award-winning and Emmy Award winning actor known for his dynamic work across stage and screen. His TV credits include Veep, Suits, The Pitt and A Series of Unfortunate Events, God’s Favorite Idiot, Nobodies and more. He has also voiced George Tarleton (M.O.D.O.K.) in the video game Marvel’s Avengers, Uncharted: Lost Legacy and appeared in the motion picture The Hunt, as well as countless award winning theatre productions in New York and Chicago.

Mouzam Makkar (Writer, Producer, “Maggie”) is an accomplished actress known for her series regular roles in Naomi from Ava DuVernay, Champions co-created by Mindy Kaling, and ABC’s The Fix. She has also appeared in recurring roles across a range of hit series, including The Neighborhood, SEAL Team, Law & Order: SVU, NCIS, The Exorcist, and The Vampire Diaries.