Amira & Sam

The story begins in New York City during 2008, just before the Great Recession looms over the economy. The atmosphere is charged with uncertainty, reflecting the personal struggles of the main characters.

Sam Seneca, a former Green Beret, visits Bassam Jafari, his former translator from Iraq. Their shared past in the military creates a warm bond, despite Bassam’s current challenges in supporting his niece Amira.

Amira Jafari, grieving her father's death and her troubled past, is initially suspicious of Sam. Her distrust stems from the traumatic memories of American forces, particularly the tragic loss of her brother.

After losing his job, Sam's cousin Charlie persuades him to engage in hedge fund ventures, unaware that these activities may be dubious. Charlie’s pressure begins to pull Sam into a morally gray area.

Amira attempts to make a living by selling bootlegged films, but soon finds herself fleeing from police during a bust. This incident highlights her precarious position as an undocumented immigrant.

Bassam informs Sam of Amira's troubles, asking him to provide her shelter. Touched by her plight, Sam agrees to help, marking the beginning of a significant relationship between him and Amira.

As Sam and Amira get to know one another, their bond deepens. Amira reveals that returning to Iraq is too dangerous for her, and they start to develop feelings for each other amidst their shared hardships.

At a gathering hosted by Charlie, Sam grows suspicious about the legality of the hedge fund operations he's been drawn into. This moment of realization sets the stage for Sam's moral conflict regarding his involvement.

Sam and Amira share a tender moment after Sam’s performance at a comedy club, culminating in a kiss. This night signifies a turning point in their relationship, deepening their emotional commitment.

During a party, tensions arise when Sam confronts Charlie about the hedge fund's ethics. An altercation ensues, leading to an inadvertent incident where Amira accidentally strikes Charlie's pregnant wife Claire.

The next day, the police arrive at Sam's apartment to arrest Amira for her alleged assault on Claire. The severity of the situation awakens Sam to the gravity of Amira's undocumented status.

At the police station, Bassam discovers that Amira is marked for deportation due to her illegal status. Despite initial offers of help from Charlie, Sam understands the seriousness of her situation.

Amira reaches out to Sam from jail, expressing her love and desire for one last day together. This request emphasizes the urgency of their situation and solidifies their bond as they face an uncertain future.

Sam and Amira spend their final day together passionately, culminating in Sam's stand-up performance where he professes his love. They decide to escape together, cherishing their fleeting moments of freedom.

With Charlie's hedge fund plans failing without Sam's involvement, the couple leaves a note for Bassam and decides to flee the city. This marks the beginning of a new chapter for them, filled with hope.