This controversial movie is based on the novel of the same name by an Arab-American journalist, Alicia Erian with the moving being directed by Alan Ball (American Beauty and Six Feet Under) that uncovers a plethora of norms, taboos and misconceptions of society.

With strong elements of sexuality and racism between two cultures, Towelhead revolves around thirteen year old Jasira (Summer Bishill) who is sent to live at her father's home Rifat (Peter Macdissi) after her mother catches their young live-in boyfriend shaving Jasira's thigh hair.

Jasira's life begins to crumble at her culturally inappropriate father who exploits his new girlfriend and chastises his own daughter for not living up to their heritage. One scene in the movie that is quite emotional is that Jasira is forbidden to use tampons due to her virginity which causes her undue distress as does the racist taunts at her high school.

Eventually Jasira befriends a black classmate that when her father finds out, he unleashes his full temper on his young daughter. Jasira's only outlet is through her neighbor Melina (Toni Collette) that almost creates a mother daughter relationship.

The movie is quite depressing at times, especially the scene with another neighbor who sexually assaults her before being sent to Iraq for the American army as a soldier.

Although it is deemed a black comedy at times, the movie is a horrible social commentary on the high emotions of America's current war with Iraq and how it effects even the innocent among them.

Gripping!