Jimmy Vestvood: Amerikan Hero 2016

In the vibrant streets of Tehran, we meet Jamshid/Jimmy Vestvood, portrayed by Maz Jobrani, a well-meaning yet unfortunate Iranian who dreams of becoming a Private Investigator (P.I.). Living a cozy life with his devoted mother, played by Vida Ghahremani, Jimmy’s world flips upside down when he wins the Green Card lottery. This milestone leads to a celebration that takes a chaotic turn, as an accidental fire ignites an American flag – a moment that goes viral, with Kox Media mistakenly interpreting it as evidence of his supposed “Terrorist” leanings.

As Jimmy and his mother embark on their American odyssey, they encounter significant cultural shock and disappointment upon their arrival in Los Angeles. Though aspiring to emulate his childhood hero, Steve McQueen from Bullitt, Jimmy finds himself stuck in the unglamorous role of a security guard at a local Persian grocery, “Mehdi the Butcher,” played by Marshall Manesh.

Fortune smiles on Jimmy when millionaire JP Monroe, portrayed by John Heard, enlists his services as a Private Investigator to look into the mysterious activities of his stunning yet dubious wife, Marcy, beautifully played by Deanna Russo. As Jimmy’s feelings for Marcy deepen, he becomes increasingly determined to unveil the truth, leading him on a journey of shocking discoveries that could alter the lives of those involved.

Throughout this intricate maze of deceit, Jimmy is forced to confront not only harsh cultural stereotypes but also the darker sides of humanity. His seventh cousin, Leila, played by Sheila Vand, who secretly harbors feelings for Jimmy, tries to support him in navigating this convoluted scenario. Ultimately, the task of untangling this web of conspiracy lands on Jimmy’s shoulders, as he strives to restore order amidst the chaos.

In the heart of this tumultuous adventure, Jimmy Vestvood brilliantly merges the comedy and satire reminiscent of The Pink Panther with the outrageous spirit of Borat, delivering a hilarious take that challenges and parodies American misconceptions of the Middle East. This film not only highlights the first hero of Middle-Eastern descent in an American comedy but also boldly questions identity and culture, showcasing how laughter can forge connections between diverse peoples.