Way Home (2024) Movie Script
Quick, quick, quick.
Hurry up. Quick.
The border is up over that hill.
Run, run, run!
- The Free Syrian Army!
- Ahrar al-Sham!
- The Free Syrian Army!
- Ahrar al-Sham!
Liwa Salahudeen?
- Liwa Salahudeen?
- Who's asking?
Abu Issa.
- What's your nationality?
- I'm Danish.
- Does anyone here know him?
- No, we don't know him.
Who vouched for you?
Abu Adnan al-Halabi.
Yes. Aleikum salam.
A Danish guy claims that Abu Adnan
al-Halabi vouched for him.
Abu Issa. Can you confirm this?
Welcome to al-Awasim. The area was
liberated by the Free Syrian Army -
- under Colonel Nazir's command.
You'll meet him later. Follow me.
Three in there.
The rest come in here. Go ahead.
Get some rest.
- Good day.
- Good day.
- Sit down.
- Thank you.
- Salam aleikum.
- Aleikum salam.
- Do you speak English, brother?
- Yes.
I'm practicing. Hamza.
Welcome to al-Awasim.
You speak English well.
Before the war,
I went to school in Damascus.
- Where are you from, brother?
- From Denmark.
- Oh. Another one.
- Yes.
- Are there many Danes here?
- Yes, quite a few.
- There are people from all over Europe.
- Okay.
Actually, there's a guy I remember.
Light-skinned.
He was with
the other Europeans here.
- Is he here?
- No, he's gone.
Where are they now? The young ones?
At the front. Fighting.
Or at the internet caf.
- Internet caf?
- In the center.
People are paranoid. Many factions.
Be careful if you go there.
Al-Qaeda takes people captive
for no reason.
Okay.
Where is the internet caf?
Over by the roundabout.
- Thank you.
- You're welcome.
Adam?
Adam?
Sorry.
Let them go.
Wait!
Wait!
Stop!
- There's a one-hour wait.
- Okay.
Have you had any customers from Denmark?
Have there been any fighters
from Denmark here?
Look. Look.
Any Danes?
Thank you.
Hey, where are you going?
Why are you running?
I'm a fighter.
I'm in Colonel Nazir's group.
Why do you speak Arabic?
Why did you run?
- Abu Ziyad. I know the man.
- Then why did he run?
I've told you, brother.
You scare people.
- Deserters are trying to infiltrate us.
- He's a fighter!
Give me 100.
Give me 100 dollars.
As you wish.
Come.
You have to know how to behave here.
You look nervous.
It seems suspicious.
Are you from al-Qaeda?
You wouldn't be sitting here if you were.
But the men were.
Why are you helping me?
I can get things
and connect you with people.
My name is Bilal.
Abu Issa.
I was a fighter,
but the revolution is dead.
Now it's just an ugly power struggle.
Rebels killing each other.
No thanks.
I'll just take care of things.
Anything you need?
- I need a new SIM card.
- I'll fix that.
- Are you looking for someone?
- Why do you ask?
Come on. You've just arrived
and are already snooping around.
I'm no detective,
but you're looking for something, brother.
I'm looking for a man.
- Where is he from?
- Denmark.
Do you have a picture of him?
Unlike you, I can ask around.
People know who I am.
I'll see what I can do.
My dear brothers
in Denmark and Scandinavia.
We are here now. We are waiting for you.
Come and fulfill your duty.
For jihad
is one of the most important pillars of Islam.
Dear brothers,
I cannot say it enough:
Come and help build
this fantastic and unique country.
Together and with Allah's help,
we can do anything. Praise Allah.
- That was really good.
- Was it?
- It's important we get it out...
- Abu Amin?
- Who are you?
- Abu Issa.
- How do you know my nickname?
- From your YouTube videos.
It's an honor to meet you.
Allah's will.
- Tea?
- Yes, please.
You're good at
getting people to listen.
Yes, many people listen.
And many come here too,
and we are growing in numbers.
- Are there many brothers from Denmark?
- Most are at the front.
- Why aren't you there?
- We will be. You start here.
- Once you've trained...
- Why are you asking about our brothers?
Only because so few speak English here,
and my Arabic could be better.
It's getting better.
Every day, Allah willing.
We're not in Syria to chat.
Brothers can come from anywhere.
The Prophet, peace be upon him,
said that sabi is haram.
Do you know what sabi is?
It's nationalism.
It's poison in our religious community.
Do you understand?
- Have you been here long?
- No, not too long.
- What about you?
- I arrived yesterday.
- Where is Allah?
- In heaven.
Which mosque do you belong to?
- Imam Ghazali Mosque.
- Do you know Uzman then?
Uzman... he...
We usually call him...
There's also Irfan. Pakistani.
He's messed up.
Abu Hassan! You don't talk like that.
You don't drink, smoke, or talk like that.
This is a test.
Is Irfan the one who always has his brother
with him? The one in the wheelchair?
- Exactly. He's totally ADHD.
- He's in a pretty good mood.
Cool, man.
Who vouched for you?
Abu Adnan al-Halabi.
- Nrrebro?
- Nrrebro.
You're old,
and you look like a PET agent.
I didn't say you are one.
I'm just saying you look like one.
When did you convert?
- Is this an interrogation, damn it?
- "Damn it"?
- No. Sorry.
- When did you convert?
Three years ago, praise Allah.
Praise Allah.
- Salam aleikum.
- Aleikum salam.
Hi, this is Anne.
Leave a message, and I'll call you back.
Hi, Anne. It's me.
I'm in Syria.
I haven't found out anything yet.
But I think I've found some people
who can help look for him.
Yes. I hope so.
We'll see.
I check my phone all the time,
so just text me if there's anything.
Otherwise, I'll try again later.
It's good. Bye.
He's crazy, you know.
- Can I go to the front?
- Yes, you're coming with us tomorrow.
You speak Arabic.
You shoot like a trained soldier.
You've killed Muslims, haven't you?
Allah strengthens those who believe.
Just try again.
- Let him shoot again.
- No.
How can you claim jihad?
- What?
- It's haram to wear gold.
Oh, the gold? You don't get to tell me
what I can and cannot do.
The Prophet said:
"If anyone from my community dies
wearing gold -
- Allah will deny him the gold of paradise.
I seek refuge in Allah."
Who is that guy?
- Abu Amin, brother.
- Are you coming to lecture us about Islam?
Your men smoke cigarettes.
They swear and drink.
Do you think God sends soldiers who
have fought against evil to hell?
Because of a gold ring
and cigarettes?
But as a Muslim, it's wajib.
It's my duty to tell you.
Learn Arabic
if you want to read the Quran, asshole.
Keep going, guys.
Come on. Let's go.
Help us, friends.
Help us.
Who are you looking for?
Don't you have any proper shoes?
These are just fine.
You're going to war, brother.
Sorry...
Salam aleikum.
Have you seen a tall white fighter?
- About this tall?
- No, there are no white men here.
We're moving towards Nizamuddin Square,
friends.
The enemy is there.
They need to be pushed back.
No one does anything I don't order.
Let's go!
That's enough!
Clear!
Clear!
Sniper!
Shooter!
Smoke bomb!
Run!
Run now! The smoke will clear soon.
Let's go!
- Salam aleikum.
- Aleikum salam.
SIM card.
His nickname is Abu Shahid.
That's what he calls himself here.
But he left al-Awasim
a couple of weeks ago.
I found a Syrian number,
but he's gone to Turkey.
- Turkey?
- That's what he reportedly said.
- Are you sure?
- That's what my contact says.
Okay...
Here's his number.
Hello?
Adam? It's Dad.
Adam?
Can you hear me, Adam?
How are you?
- Are you there?
- Yes. I... I'm in Turkey.
It's great to hear your voice.
How are you? Where are you?
I'm in Turkey. Where are you?
I'm in Syria.
I thought you were here.
I'm in Turkey, but I'm going home.
Go home, and we'll meet there.
No, no, but where in Turkey are you?
Adam? Which city are you in?
I'm calling a Syrian number.
I'm in the camp
I told Mom about. Nizip. But...
- You cut out. What's the city called?
- You shouldn't come down. It...
I can't hear what you're saying.
Adam?
Adam? Fuck!
Adam?
Adam?
- Hello?
- He's on his way home from Turkey.
- Are you sure?
- Yes, I just spoke to him.
- Is he okay?
- He sounded calm.
He called from the camp
he told you about.
- Nizip.
- Exactly. So maybe we'll see him soon.
But... you haven't heard from him?
He hasn't called you?
- No.
- It's just strange, because he...
He's probably just been stressed.
But he was on his way when I called.
- That's good to hear, Christian.
- Yes, it's damn good to hear.
I told you it would work out, Anne.
Yes.
- You're happy, right? Because it sounds...
- Of course.
Damn, you're annoying to talk to
on the phone. I'm hanging up now.
What are you doing?
We're leaving tomorrow,
and you're coming with us.
Something's going to happen here
tomorrow.
Why are you packing that?
Hey...
Stay alive, Hassan.
So let them fight in the way of God -
- who are willing to sell
this worldly life for the hereafter.
So let them fight in the way of God...
... killed...
... and be granted
a great reward.
May the Islamic State endure
and grow stronger.
Brothers from Denmark, we urge you
to come here and fight.
- Allahu akbar.
- Allahu akbar.
I need to go there.
It's al-Qasr. It's here in Syria.
It's an al-Dawlah
al-Islamiyah area. ISIS.
They kill foreigners who aren't
on their side as soon as they arrive.
- Sorry. I can't do that.
- Come on. You'll get paid for it.
No, no. It's too dangerous.
I can't take responsibility for you.
- Come as far as you want.
- No, that's not it.
They don't distinguish between people,
but kill you on the spot.
- Come on. It's...
- I can't.
I can't. Sorry.
I just can't.
Good luck, brother.
What did you mean by
sticking with you guys?
Hassan?
We're leaving.
- Abu Amin and you?
- Yes, and a few others.
- We're going to the Islamic State.
- What?
- That's right.
- Is Abu Amin going to al-Qasr?
Yes. Listen,
ISIS is planning to come here.
They're coming here? When?
I don't know. We need to leave
before we end up on the wrong side.
That's what Abu Amin says. He says
Nazir isn't following the right path.
It's getting better.
Can I sit down?
- Salam aleikum.
- Aleikum salam.
Thank you.
I want to come, brother.
- Where?
- Al-Qasr.
I want to come.
- Nazir isn't...
- No, we know.
You're right.
This group isn't on the right path.
Nazir doesn't follow the Quran.
You saw that from the start.
The brothers need fighters.
And someone who can shoot.
Listen. We don't know him.
How does he know all these things?
I've told him that.
I've also told him
to stick with us.
He saved my life.
He was at the forefront of jihad.
Did you call the right number?
What do you think?
Of course.
They were supposed to get me a ride,
but...
Are you going to al-Qasr?
It's an ISIS-controlled area.
- We know.
- And you still want to go?
I'll drop you off an hour's drive
from al-Qasr, where it's safe.
Come on.
Let's go!
- What now?
- What's happening?
- Fighter jets.
- What's happening?
- Zelina?
- Help us!
Help us!
Zelina! Help us!
Help us!
Get in my car. Quick!
Come on, come on. Put her in the back seat.
Put this around her.
I really hope
you make it to al-Qasr.
And that you find what you're looking for.
May Allah be with you.
Allahu akbar.
Allahu akbar. Allahu akbar.
Allahu akbar.
Quick! Let's go!
- No, no, no!
- Come on!
Come on! Get out!
Come on! Let's go! Let's go!
Get in!
Abu Amin. Besnik Ismaili.
Abu Hassan. Jacob Asfandiari.
Come with me.
- Where are you from?
- I'm from Denmark.
What are you doing here?
Looking for the right path.
- Welcome.
- Thank you.
I'm sorry about all this.
What's his name?
Adam.
What's your name, Agent 00-Dane?
My name is Christian.
Nice to meet you, Christian.
It's his birthday tomorrow.
- Congratulations.
- Thank you. He's turning 18.
Big day.
I've been to Afghanistan
four times. Twice to Iraq.
I've spent over half of my son's
childhood here. In this...
- Hell.
- Hell?
A bunch of countries, each with their
thousand-year-old cultural history -
- but to you, it's "hell."
- I didn't mean to...
- It's fine.
But... what are you doing here?
I wanted to help.
I guess.
But the revolution failed.
- Why don't you go back?
- I can't.
The British government calls me
a terrorist and has taken my passport.
I'm stuck here.
My dad also wants me to come home.
Get up. Quick!
You stay here.
Let's go.
Come on. Let's go.
I haven't managed to find
anyone who knows you.
But Abu Amin and Abu Hassan...
They know me.
No. Abu Amin only vouched
for Abu Hassan.
But...
The men here are traitors.
They're worse than Nizam.
They're traitors trying
to crush the revolution from within.
On your knees!
You said you left al-Awasim because
they're apostates committing haram.
Is that true?
Yes.
- Takbir.
- Allahu akbar.
- Takbir.
- Allahu akbar.
Welcome to al-Dawlah al-Islamiyah.
Allah's will, brother.
Thank you.
From now on, you're my subordinate.
When you're not working,
I always need to know where you are.
- Of course.
- Good.
Are you okay?
I couldn't vouch for you.
I don't know you.
But now...
... now you've proven
that you're one of us.
Islamic State.
Stand up.
Stand up.
You there, stand up.
Good.
Now you'll practice with your friends.
Come on.
Are you ready? Hands behind your back.
Next.
Come on. Stand up.
Be ready.
Well done. Good job.
- Choose me.
- Do you really want to be chosen?
Not yet. In a few years.
We'll pray together here in the mosque.
We only pray alone
if we're on the battlefield.
Maybe you can lead us
in prayer one day.
- You'll work in hisbah.
- Hisbah?
Our police. The ones who dictate what's
just, evil, and forbidden.
You start now. Get people to prayer.
We'll see you there.
Abu Shahid!
Abu Issa? Abu Issa?
Don't get on Abu Amin's bad side.
Okay? Is something wrong?
- No, it's fine.
- I'm working in the prison.
When they cut people's hands off,
I have to clean up the blood.
Allahu akbar.
I bear witness
that Allah is the only god.
I bear witness
that Muhammad is Allah's messenger.
Come to prayer, come to salvation.
Prayer has begun.
- Allahu akbar.
- Allahu akbar.
Praise be to God, Lord of the worlds.
The Most Gracious, the Most Merciful,
Master of the Day of Judgment.
You alone we worship,
and You alone we ask for help.
Salam aleikum.
- Hello?
- Anne? Hi.
I haven't heard from him yet.
Christian? Are you there?
He's not going to Turkey.
He wasn't coming home.
Do you know where he is?
Yes. He's here.
In al-Qasr.
- Where is that?
- In Syria.
He's joined
the Islamic State.
I need to get him out. It's just...
It's tough.
I'll get him out. I will.
I can do it.
- Listen to him. Promise me.
- Of course.
Don't tell him what to do.
- I've never done that.
- Just listen.
Of course! I'm not an idiot.
But what if he doesn't want to come home?
He shuts down if you try
to tell him anything.
Do you hear what I'm saying to you?
- You need to listen to him.
- I have to run.
- Salam aleikum.
- Aleikum salam.
- Salam aleikum.
- Aleikum salam.
Abu Issa?
What are you doing outside so late?
I just needed some fresh air.
Then open a window.
I just wanted to see where I was.
Understand the city.
You can do that
when I say you can.
Go inside and sleep. Step aside.
Thank you, Emir.
Come on, come on.
Watch out, please.
- Hey.
- Sit down.
I've come to say that you shouldn't
be here. You need to go home.
Okay.
Happy birthday.
Can you...
Will you sit down for a moment?
Just two minutes. For my sake.
Then I'll leave.
What's up?
I miss you.
- And Mom misses you.
- You and Mom don't talk.
Yes, we do.
You haven't talked in ten years.
Does she want to talk to you now?
- She didn't before.
- No, but we talk now.
You need to go home before
they find out why you're here.
Will you explain why you're here?
- You wouldn't understand.
- I can try.
- You shouldn't be here.
- That's not true.
You're not listening.
I want to be here.
Okay.
But this...
- This has nothing to do with Islam.
- This has everything to do with Islam.
Then explain it to me so I
understand it. Why are you here?
I can't explain it to you.
You wouldn't understand.
It's okay.
Allah has shown me the way.
- Allah has shown you the way?
- Yes. You don't get it.
You have no idea how many have
died because he showed them the way.
Many Muslims
have died because of you.
But this is wrong, Adam.
They're thieves and robbers.
You need to leave. You shouldn't
be here. You shouldn't.
Sorry. I'm just trying
to understand it. To understand you.
Then understand that I want to stay,
that this makes sense to me.
- Nothing else has made sense!
- I get that.
- No, you don't!
- Calm down.
I'm not afraid to die.
You're afraid to die.
You're angry about all your soldiers
who died. We celebrate the death of the dead.
Death is worth more to us than life,
and you don't get it.
Go.
Okay.
But can I say one last thing?
I'll say one more thing, Adam.
One more thing, and then I'll go.
I won't do anything.
I won't do a thing.
We love you.
So much.
Your friends miss you.
- Her... Alma? What's her name?
- Alba.
Alba. She talks to Mom.
She misses you.
- Abu Musa always asks about you.
- Musa doesn't get it either.
Okay.
It's amazing
that you've found your faith.
It's the best thing that's happened to you.
And no one can take that from you.
But this...
Everyone back home misses you, Adam.
I've spoken to an imam I think
you'd like. He knows many...
You're so mean. You do that!
I won't fall for it.
- Calm down now.
- No, you'll ruin it.
You want it your way!
That's what you always do!
- But it means something to me.
- Can you shut up now?
- We can't stay here.
- I know that.
There are executions tomorrow. If
you don't go home, you'll end up on a cross.
Because you're a hypocrite.
Leave Syria.
Get out! Let me go!
Let me go, you fucking idiot!
Come on! Come on!
You're leaving before tomorrow.
Or I'll report you.
- What the hell are you doing? Adam?
- I mean it.
Get out!
Come on. Get out!
No, no.
There's a young man you need to meet.
He's also a Scandinavian fighter.
He trains hard and is very eager.
We should pray together. For him.
Hey.
Okay?
Your name is Jacob, right?
Breathe.
Breathe calmly.
Bilal is imprisoned here.
- Where you work?
- Yes.
Get some sleep.
Go upstairs and lie down.
We'll talk tomorrow.
Now.
Agent 00-Dane.
- Will you call my dad?
- Of course.
- Do you have a phone?
- Yes.
0-0-4-4-7-8-8-8.
0-1-1-8-6-4.
Will you tell him I'm dead?
Say it was because I couldn't
kill a man.
Did you find Abu Shahid?
Good.
In the Quran, it says:
"Hear, O servants,
who have sinned against yourselves -
- never lose hope
in God's mercy."
"Allah forgives all sins,
for He is the Most Forgiving -
- and Most Merciful."
Come on!
Take them out, guard.
- Abu Issa.
- Wait.
I don't usually do this. Sorry.
I don't usually smoke.
What can I do?
Can you smuggle people out of here?
I need a car tonight.
Praise Allah.
We have captured these three traitors.
They have betrayed God and His prophet.
God punishes them with death.
- Allahu akbar.
- Allahu akbar.
In the name of God.
- Allahu akbar.
- Allahu akbar.
That... that's not my God.
We need to go home.
At two tonight.
Okay. I'm ready.
Go to bed. Get up.
Make sure no one sees you.
We'll meet outside where the trucks
are parked on the way into town.
- Fine.
- Good.
Abu Hassan?
Leave me alone.
Abu Issa?
Come. This is the young man
you were supposed to meet.
- Salam aleikum.
- Aleikum salam.
Now we'll pray together, and then
we'll eat together early tomorrow.
- Allahu akbar.
- Allahu akbar.
- Hello?
- Hey.
- You need to withdraw some money.
- Are you with him?
- Yes, I'm with him.
- Is he coming?
I need to talk to him first.
- He...
- What?
I need you to give a Syrian man
in Copenhagen 6000 dollars.
- Anne?
- 6000 dollars?
Yes, and you need to do it now.
Listen: He needs the money today.
- Say it's from Abu Issa.
- From who?
- From Abu Issa. It's important.
- Wait a second...
Breathe. One letter at a time.
Otherwise, I can't keep up.
A-B-U
I-S-S-A.
That's my name.
That's what I'm called.
I'll send you a message
with all the details in a moment.
I'll get him to come tonight, Anne.
We're leaving tonight.
We just need to get to Turkey,
and then it's over.
Everything will be fine.
We'll figure this out.
He's not coming home.
What are you saying?
You won't get him to come home. He's
made up his mind. You know him.
Anne, he has no idea what he's doing.
He just needs
to belong somewhere.
Let go, Christian...
What the hell are you saying? You can't
just let go of your son.
Do you think I'd say this if I thought
there was even a small chance?
What? Don't you think I've done
everything in my power?
I've fought for the diagnoses...
I've fought from one institution
to another. Try...
He only found peace
when he found his faith. He's gone.
And you're the only one
who won't accept it.
We lost him a long time ago, honey.
There's nothing you can do.
You can bet your ass there is.
Call me tomorrow.
- Do you live here?
- I'm looking for...
Adam?
No, damn it. I said...
Easy, easy, easy...
We need to go home.
We need to go home. Do you hear me?
Abu Hassan?
- Abu Hassan?
- Hey. Hey.
Hi.
Yes.
Come.
Salam aleikum.
Two.
Three.
You've got 6000.
Open up.
Come on. Quick.
Easy, easy.
It's okay. Easy, easy.
What the hell is going on?
Listen to what I'm saying.
Just drive.
No, no, no. Easy.
Come on. Out.
Turkey?
That way.
Take it easy.
Take it easy,
or I won't let you go.
Okay?
Adam... Listen...
Let me go, man!
Damn it, what are you doing?
Do you think you can force me to come home?
You're trying to do
whatever you want.
Even if you got me home, I'd come back
here as soon as I could.
Now listen to what I'm saying.
You have no idea who I am.
You have no clue who I am.
Adam...
Will you for once...?
- Stop it!
- Stop, man!
Let him go! Let go!
Stop, man!
- I hope you find your way home.
- Adam...
Adam.
Adam!
Oneliner
Hurry up. Quick.
The border is up over that hill.
Run, run, run!
- The Free Syrian Army!
- Ahrar al-Sham!
- The Free Syrian Army!
- Ahrar al-Sham!
Liwa Salahudeen?
- Liwa Salahudeen?
- Who's asking?
Abu Issa.
- What's your nationality?
- I'm Danish.
- Does anyone here know him?
- No, we don't know him.
Who vouched for you?
Abu Adnan al-Halabi.
Yes. Aleikum salam.
A Danish guy claims that Abu Adnan
al-Halabi vouched for him.
Abu Issa. Can you confirm this?
Welcome to al-Awasim. The area was
liberated by the Free Syrian Army -
- under Colonel Nazir's command.
You'll meet him later. Follow me.
Three in there.
The rest come in here. Go ahead.
Get some rest.
- Good day.
- Good day.
- Sit down.
- Thank you.
- Salam aleikum.
- Aleikum salam.
- Do you speak English, brother?
- Yes.
I'm practicing. Hamza.
Welcome to al-Awasim.
You speak English well.
Before the war,
I went to school in Damascus.
- Where are you from, brother?
- From Denmark.
- Oh. Another one.
- Yes.
- Are there many Danes here?
- Yes, quite a few.
- There are people from all over Europe.
- Okay.
Actually, there's a guy I remember.
Light-skinned.
He was with
the other Europeans here.
- Is he here?
- No, he's gone.
Where are they now? The young ones?
At the front. Fighting.
Or at the internet caf.
- Internet caf?
- In the center.
People are paranoid. Many factions.
Be careful if you go there.
Al-Qaeda takes people captive
for no reason.
Okay.
Where is the internet caf?
Over by the roundabout.
- Thank you.
- You're welcome.
Adam?
Adam?
Sorry.
Let them go.
Wait!
Wait!
Stop!
- There's a one-hour wait.
- Okay.
Have you had any customers from Denmark?
Have there been any fighters
from Denmark here?
Look. Look.
Any Danes?
Thank you.
Hey, where are you going?
Why are you running?
I'm a fighter.
I'm in Colonel Nazir's group.
Why do you speak Arabic?
Why did you run?
- Abu Ziyad. I know the man.
- Then why did he run?
I've told you, brother.
You scare people.
- Deserters are trying to infiltrate us.
- He's a fighter!
Give me 100.
Give me 100 dollars.
As you wish.
Come.
You have to know how to behave here.
You look nervous.
It seems suspicious.
Are you from al-Qaeda?
You wouldn't be sitting here if you were.
But the men were.
Why are you helping me?
I can get things
and connect you with people.
My name is Bilal.
Abu Issa.
I was a fighter,
but the revolution is dead.
Now it's just an ugly power struggle.
Rebels killing each other.
No thanks.
I'll just take care of things.
Anything you need?
- I need a new SIM card.
- I'll fix that.
- Are you looking for someone?
- Why do you ask?
Come on. You've just arrived
and are already snooping around.
I'm no detective,
but you're looking for something, brother.
I'm looking for a man.
- Where is he from?
- Denmark.
Do you have a picture of him?
Unlike you, I can ask around.
People know who I am.
I'll see what I can do.
My dear brothers
in Denmark and Scandinavia.
We are here now. We are waiting for you.
Come and fulfill your duty.
For jihad
is one of the most important pillars of Islam.
Dear brothers,
I cannot say it enough:
Come and help build
this fantastic and unique country.
Together and with Allah's help,
we can do anything. Praise Allah.
- That was really good.
- Was it?
- It's important we get it out...
- Abu Amin?
- Who are you?
- Abu Issa.
- How do you know my nickname?
- From your YouTube videos.
It's an honor to meet you.
Allah's will.
- Tea?
- Yes, please.
You're good at
getting people to listen.
Yes, many people listen.
And many come here too,
and we are growing in numbers.
- Are there many brothers from Denmark?
- Most are at the front.
- Why aren't you there?
- We will be. You start here.
- Once you've trained...
- Why are you asking about our brothers?
Only because so few speak English here,
and my Arabic could be better.
It's getting better.
Every day, Allah willing.
We're not in Syria to chat.
Brothers can come from anywhere.
The Prophet, peace be upon him,
said that sabi is haram.
Do you know what sabi is?
It's nationalism.
It's poison in our religious community.
Do you understand?
- Have you been here long?
- No, not too long.
- What about you?
- I arrived yesterday.
- Where is Allah?
- In heaven.
Which mosque do you belong to?
- Imam Ghazali Mosque.
- Do you know Uzman then?
Uzman... he...
We usually call him...
There's also Irfan. Pakistani.
He's messed up.
Abu Hassan! You don't talk like that.
You don't drink, smoke, or talk like that.
This is a test.
Is Irfan the one who always has his brother
with him? The one in the wheelchair?
- Exactly. He's totally ADHD.
- He's in a pretty good mood.
Cool, man.
Who vouched for you?
Abu Adnan al-Halabi.
- Nrrebro?
- Nrrebro.
You're old,
and you look like a PET agent.
I didn't say you are one.
I'm just saying you look like one.
When did you convert?
- Is this an interrogation, damn it?
- "Damn it"?
- No. Sorry.
- When did you convert?
Three years ago, praise Allah.
Praise Allah.
- Salam aleikum.
- Aleikum salam.
Hi, this is Anne.
Leave a message, and I'll call you back.
Hi, Anne. It's me.
I'm in Syria.
I haven't found out anything yet.
But I think I've found some people
who can help look for him.
Yes. I hope so.
We'll see.
I check my phone all the time,
so just text me if there's anything.
Otherwise, I'll try again later.
It's good. Bye.
He's crazy, you know.
- Can I go to the front?
- Yes, you're coming with us tomorrow.
You speak Arabic.
You shoot like a trained soldier.
You've killed Muslims, haven't you?
Allah strengthens those who believe.
Just try again.
- Let him shoot again.
- No.
How can you claim jihad?
- What?
- It's haram to wear gold.
Oh, the gold? You don't get to tell me
what I can and cannot do.
The Prophet said:
"If anyone from my community dies
wearing gold -
- Allah will deny him the gold of paradise.
I seek refuge in Allah."
Who is that guy?
- Abu Amin, brother.
- Are you coming to lecture us about Islam?
Your men smoke cigarettes.
They swear and drink.
Do you think God sends soldiers who
have fought against evil to hell?
Because of a gold ring
and cigarettes?
But as a Muslim, it's wajib.
It's my duty to tell you.
Learn Arabic
if you want to read the Quran, asshole.
Keep going, guys.
Come on. Let's go.
Help us, friends.
Help us.
Who are you looking for?
Don't you have any proper shoes?
These are just fine.
You're going to war, brother.
Sorry...
Salam aleikum.
Have you seen a tall white fighter?
- About this tall?
- No, there are no white men here.
We're moving towards Nizamuddin Square,
friends.
The enemy is there.
They need to be pushed back.
No one does anything I don't order.
Let's go!
That's enough!
Clear!
Clear!
Sniper!
Shooter!
Smoke bomb!
Run!
Run now! The smoke will clear soon.
Let's go!
- Salam aleikum.
- Aleikum salam.
SIM card.
His nickname is Abu Shahid.
That's what he calls himself here.
But he left al-Awasim
a couple of weeks ago.
I found a Syrian number,
but he's gone to Turkey.
- Turkey?
- That's what he reportedly said.
- Are you sure?
- That's what my contact says.
Okay...
Here's his number.
Hello?
Adam? It's Dad.
Adam?
Can you hear me, Adam?
How are you?
- Are you there?
- Yes. I... I'm in Turkey.
It's great to hear your voice.
How are you? Where are you?
I'm in Turkey. Where are you?
I'm in Syria.
I thought you were here.
I'm in Turkey, but I'm going home.
Go home, and we'll meet there.
No, no, but where in Turkey are you?
Adam? Which city are you in?
I'm calling a Syrian number.
I'm in the camp
I told Mom about. Nizip. But...
- You cut out. What's the city called?
- You shouldn't come down. It...
I can't hear what you're saying.
Adam?
Adam? Fuck!
Adam?
Adam?
- Hello?
- He's on his way home from Turkey.
- Are you sure?
- Yes, I just spoke to him.
- Is he okay?
- He sounded calm.
He called from the camp
he told you about.
- Nizip.
- Exactly. So maybe we'll see him soon.
But... you haven't heard from him?
He hasn't called you?
- No.
- It's just strange, because he...
He's probably just been stressed.
But he was on his way when I called.
- That's good to hear, Christian.
- Yes, it's damn good to hear.
I told you it would work out, Anne.
Yes.
- You're happy, right? Because it sounds...
- Of course.
Damn, you're annoying to talk to
on the phone. I'm hanging up now.
What are you doing?
We're leaving tomorrow,
and you're coming with us.
Something's going to happen here
tomorrow.
Why are you packing that?
Hey...
Stay alive, Hassan.
So let them fight in the way of God -
- who are willing to sell
this worldly life for the hereafter.
So let them fight in the way of God...
... killed...
... and be granted
a great reward.
May the Islamic State endure
and grow stronger.
Brothers from Denmark, we urge you
to come here and fight.
- Allahu akbar.
- Allahu akbar.
I need to go there.
It's al-Qasr. It's here in Syria.
It's an al-Dawlah
al-Islamiyah area. ISIS.
They kill foreigners who aren't
on their side as soon as they arrive.
- Sorry. I can't do that.
- Come on. You'll get paid for it.
No, no. It's too dangerous.
I can't take responsibility for you.
- Come as far as you want.
- No, that's not it.
They don't distinguish between people,
but kill you on the spot.
- Come on. It's...
- I can't.
I can't. Sorry.
I just can't.
Good luck, brother.
What did you mean by
sticking with you guys?
Hassan?
We're leaving.
- Abu Amin and you?
- Yes, and a few others.
- We're going to the Islamic State.
- What?
- That's right.
- Is Abu Amin going to al-Qasr?
Yes. Listen,
ISIS is planning to come here.
They're coming here? When?
I don't know. We need to leave
before we end up on the wrong side.
That's what Abu Amin says. He says
Nazir isn't following the right path.
It's getting better.
Can I sit down?
- Salam aleikum.
- Aleikum salam.
Thank you.
I want to come, brother.
- Where?
- Al-Qasr.
I want to come.
- Nazir isn't...
- No, we know.
You're right.
This group isn't on the right path.
Nazir doesn't follow the Quran.
You saw that from the start.
The brothers need fighters.
And someone who can shoot.
Listen. We don't know him.
How does he know all these things?
I've told him that.
I've also told him
to stick with us.
He saved my life.
He was at the forefront of jihad.
Did you call the right number?
What do you think?
Of course.
They were supposed to get me a ride,
but...
Are you going to al-Qasr?
It's an ISIS-controlled area.
- We know.
- And you still want to go?
I'll drop you off an hour's drive
from al-Qasr, where it's safe.
Come on.
Let's go!
- What now?
- What's happening?
- Fighter jets.
- What's happening?
- Zelina?
- Help us!
Help us!
Zelina! Help us!
Help us!
Get in my car. Quick!
Come on, come on. Put her in the back seat.
Put this around her.
I really hope
you make it to al-Qasr.
And that you find what you're looking for.
May Allah be with you.
Allahu akbar.
Allahu akbar. Allahu akbar.
Allahu akbar.
Quick! Let's go!
- No, no, no!
- Come on!
Come on! Get out!
Come on! Let's go! Let's go!
Get in!
Abu Amin. Besnik Ismaili.
Abu Hassan. Jacob Asfandiari.
Come with me.
- Where are you from?
- I'm from Denmark.
What are you doing here?
Looking for the right path.
- Welcome.
- Thank you.
I'm sorry about all this.
What's his name?
Adam.
What's your name, Agent 00-Dane?
My name is Christian.
Nice to meet you, Christian.
It's his birthday tomorrow.
- Congratulations.
- Thank you. He's turning 18.
Big day.
I've been to Afghanistan
four times. Twice to Iraq.
I've spent over half of my son's
childhood here. In this...
- Hell.
- Hell?
A bunch of countries, each with their
thousand-year-old cultural history -
- but to you, it's "hell."
- I didn't mean to...
- It's fine.
But... what are you doing here?
I wanted to help.
I guess.
But the revolution failed.
- Why don't you go back?
- I can't.
The British government calls me
a terrorist and has taken my passport.
I'm stuck here.
My dad also wants me to come home.
Get up. Quick!
You stay here.
Let's go.
Come on. Let's go.
I haven't managed to find
anyone who knows you.
But Abu Amin and Abu Hassan...
They know me.
No. Abu Amin only vouched
for Abu Hassan.
But...
The men here are traitors.
They're worse than Nizam.
They're traitors trying
to crush the revolution from within.
On your knees!
You said you left al-Awasim because
they're apostates committing haram.
Is that true?
Yes.
- Takbir.
- Allahu akbar.
- Takbir.
- Allahu akbar.
Welcome to al-Dawlah al-Islamiyah.
Allah's will, brother.
Thank you.
From now on, you're my subordinate.
When you're not working,
I always need to know where you are.
- Of course.
- Good.
Are you okay?
I couldn't vouch for you.
I don't know you.
But now...
... now you've proven
that you're one of us.
Islamic State.
Stand up.
Stand up.
You there, stand up.
Good.
Now you'll practice with your friends.
Come on.
Are you ready? Hands behind your back.
Next.
Come on. Stand up.
Be ready.
Well done. Good job.
- Choose me.
- Do you really want to be chosen?
Not yet. In a few years.
We'll pray together here in the mosque.
We only pray alone
if we're on the battlefield.
Maybe you can lead us
in prayer one day.
- You'll work in hisbah.
- Hisbah?
Our police. The ones who dictate what's
just, evil, and forbidden.
You start now. Get people to prayer.
We'll see you there.
Abu Shahid!
Abu Issa? Abu Issa?
Don't get on Abu Amin's bad side.
Okay? Is something wrong?
- No, it's fine.
- I'm working in the prison.
When they cut people's hands off,
I have to clean up the blood.
Allahu akbar.
I bear witness
that Allah is the only god.
I bear witness
that Muhammad is Allah's messenger.
Come to prayer, come to salvation.
Prayer has begun.
- Allahu akbar.
- Allahu akbar.
Praise be to God, Lord of the worlds.
The Most Gracious, the Most Merciful,
Master of the Day of Judgment.
You alone we worship,
and You alone we ask for help.
Salam aleikum.
- Hello?
- Anne? Hi.
I haven't heard from him yet.
Christian? Are you there?
He's not going to Turkey.
He wasn't coming home.
Do you know where he is?
Yes. He's here.
In al-Qasr.
- Where is that?
- In Syria.
He's joined
the Islamic State.
I need to get him out. It's just...
It's tough.
I'll get him out. I will.
I can do it.
- Listen to him. Promise me.
- Of course.
Don't tell him what to do.
- I've never done that.
- Just listen.
Of course! I'm not an idiot.
But what if he doesn't want to come home?
He shuts down if you try
to tell him anything.
Do you hear what I'm saying to you?
- You need to listen to him.
- I have to run.
- Salam aleikum.
- Aleikum salam.
- Salam aleikum.
- Aleikum salam.
Abu Issa?
What are you doing outside so late?
I just needed some fresh air.
Then open a window.
I just wanted to see where I was.
Understand the city.
You can do that
when I say you can.
Go inside and sleep. Step aside.
Thank you, Emir.
Come on, come on.
Watch out, please.
- Hey.
- Sit down.
I've come to say that you shouldn't
be here. You need to go home.
Okay.
Happy birthday.
Can you...
Will you sit down for a moment?
Just two minutes. For my sake.
Then I'll leave.
What's up?
I miss you.
- And Mom misses you.
- You and Mom don't talk.
Yes, we do.
You haven't talked in ten years.
Does she want to talk to you now?
- She didn't before.
- No, but we talk now.
You need to go home before
they find out why you're here.
Will you explain why you're here?
- You wouldn't understand.
- I can try.
- You shouldn't be here.
- That's not true.
You're not listening.
I want to be here.
Okay.
But this...
- This has nothing to do with Islam.
- This has everything to do with Islam.
Then explain it to me so I
understand it. Why are you here?
I can't explain it to you.
You wouldn't understand.
It's okay.
Allah has shown me the way.
- Allah has shown you the way?
- Yes. You don't get it.
You have no idea how many have
died because he showed them the way.
Many Muslims
have died because of you.
But this is wrong, Adam.
They're thieves and robbers.
You need to leave. You shouldn't
be here. You shouldn't.
Sorry. I'm just trying
to understand it. To understand you.
Then understand that I want to stay,
that this makes sense to me.
- Nothing else has made sense!
- I get that.
- No, you don't!
- Calm down.
I'm not afraid to die.
You're afraid to die.
You're angry about all your soldiers
who died. We celebrate the death of the dead.
Death is worth more to us than life,
and you don't get it.
Go.
Okay.
But can I say one last thing?
I'll say one more thing, Adam.
One more thing, and then I'll go.
I won't do anything.
I won't do a thing.
We love you.
So much.
Your friends miss you.
- Her... Alma? What's her name?
- Alba.
Alba. She talks to Mom.
She misses you.
- Abu Musa always asks about you.
- Musa doesn't get it either.
Okay.
It's amazing
that you've found your faith.
It's the best thing that's happened to you.
And no one can take that from you.
But this...
Everyone back home misses you, Adam.
I've spoken to an imam I think
you'd like. He knows many...
You're so mean. You do that!
I won't fall for it.
- Calm down now.
- No, you'll ruin it.
You want it your way!
That's what you always do!
- But it means something to me.
- Can you shut up now?
- We can't stay here.
- I know that.
There are executions tomorrow. If
you don't go home, you'll end up on a cross.
Because you're a hypocrite.
Leave Syria.
Get out! Let me go!
Let me go, you fucking idiot!
Come on! Come on!
You're leaving before tomorrow.
Or I'll report you.
- What the hell are you doing? Adam?
- I mean it.
Get out!
Come on. Get out!
No, no.
There's a young man you need to meet.
He's also a Scandinavian fighter.
He trains hard and is very eager.
We should pray together. For him.
Hey.
Okay?
Your name is Jacob, right?
Breathe.
Breathe calmly.
Bilal is imprisoned here.
- Where you work?
- Yes.
Get some sleep.
Go upstairs and lie down.
We'll talk tomorrow.
Now.
Agent 00-Dane.
- Will you call my dad?
- Of course.
- Do you have a phone?
- Yes.
0-0-4-4-7-8-8-8.
0-1-1-8-6-4.
Will you tell him I'm dead?
Say it was because I couldn't
kill a man.
Did you find Abu Shahid?
Good.
In the Quran, it says:
"Hear, O servants,
who have sinned against yourselves -
- never lose hope
in God's mercy."
"Allah forgives all sins,
for He is the Most Forgiving -
- and Most Merciful."
Come on!
Take them out, guard.
- Abu Issa.
- Wait.
I don't usually do this. Sorry.
I don't usually smoke.
What can I do?
Can you smuggle people out of here?
I need a car tonight.
Praise Allah.
We have captured these three traitors.
They have betrayed God and His prophet.
God punishes them with death.
- Allahu akbar.
- Allahu akbar.
In the name of God.
- Allahu akbar.
- Allahu akbar.
That... that's not my God.
We need to go home.
At two tonight.
Okay. I'm ready.
Go to bed. Get up.
Make sure no one sees you.
We'll meet outside where the trucks
are parked on the way into town.
- Fine.
- Good.
Abu Hassan?
Leave me alone.
Abu Issa?
Come. This is the young man
you were supposed to meet.
- Salam aleikum.
- Aleikum salam.
Now we'll pray together, and then
we'll eat together early tomorrow.
- Allahu akbar.
- Allahu akbar.
- Hello?
- Hey.
- You need to withdraw some money.
- Are you with him?
- Yes, I'm with him.
- Is he coming?
I need to talk to him first.
- He...
- What?
I need you to give a Syrian man
in Copenhagen 6000 dollars.
- Anne?
- 6000 dollars?
Yes, and you need to do it now.
Listen: He needs the money today.
- Say it's from Abu Issa.
- From who?
- From Abu Issa. It's important.
- Wait a second...
Breathe. One letter at a time.
Otherwise, I can't keep up.
A-B-U
I-S-S-A.
That's my name.
That's what I'm called.
I'll send you a message
with all the details in a moment.
I'll get him to come tonight, Anne.
We're leaving tonight.
We just need to get to Turkey,
and then it's over.
Everything will be fine.
We'll figure this out.
He's not coming home.
What are you saying?
You won't get him to come home. He's
made up his mind. You know him.
Anne, he has no idea what he's doing.
He just needs
to belong somewhere.
Let go, Christian...
What the hell are you saying? You can't
just let go of your son.
Do you think I'd say this if I thought
there was even a small chance?
What? Don't you think I've done
everything in my power?
I've fought for the diagnoses...
I've fought from one institution
to another. Try...
He only found peace
when he found his faith. He's gone.
And you're the only one
who won't accept it.
We lost him a long time ago, honey.
There's nothing you can do.
You can bet your ass there is.
Call me tomorrow.
- Do you live here?
- I'm looking for...
Adam?
No, damn it. I said...
Easy, easy, easy...
We need to go home.
We need to go home. Do you hear me?
Abu Hassan?
- Abu Hassan?
- Hey. Hey.
Hi.
Yes.
Come.
Salam aleikum.
Two.
Three.
You've got 6000.
Open up.
Come on. Quick.
Easy, easy.
It's okay. Easy, easy.
What the hell is going on?
Listen to what I'm saying.
Just drive.
No, no, no. Easy.
Come on. Out.
Turkey?
That way.
Take it easy.
Take it easy,
or I won't let you go.
Okay?
Adam... Listen...
Let me go, man!
Damn it, what are you doing?
Do you think you can force me to come home?
You're trying to do
whatever you want.
Even if you got me home, I'd come back
here as soon as I could.
Now listen to what I'm saying.
You have no idea who I am.
You have no clue who I am.
Adam...
Will you for once...?
- Stop it!
- Stop, man!
Let him go! Let go!
Stop, man!
- I hope you find your way home.
- Adam...
Adam.
Adam!
Oneliner