The Infidel

A husband and father who enjoys rock music and occasional drinking, Mahmud is shaken when he learns he was adopted and has Jewish birth parents named Solly Shimshillewitz. He wrestles with prejudices and a growing urge to perform a devout Muslim identity to please his in-laws. His public missteps—burning a kippah and delivering embarrassing jokes—unravel his relationships and spark a quest for truth.

An American Jewish neighbour who becomes Mahmud's reluctant guide to Jewish culture, teaching basic Yiddish and even how to dance like Topol. His visits raise suspicion among Mahmud's family, yet he provides practical support and a steady voice amid the chaos. Lenny's friendship underscores the possibility of cross-cultural understanding in a charged environment.

Mahmud's biological father, a Jewish man living in a Jewish old-age home. Mahmud's search for him is hindered by a rabbi's refusal to admit him, and Izzy ultimately dies before they can meet. A video left in Izzy's room preserves a memory of Mahmud's public announcement, hinting at a lifelong connection that transcends years.

The devout Muslim cleric who is presented to Mahmud's circle as a model of piety, but is later revealed to be Gary Page, the pop singer who faked his death after a racist rant. His orchestration of a new identity and his public persona drive the central conflict, culminating in a dramatic rally and escape in old Gary Page clothes.

Mahmud's son who wishes to marry Uzma and seeks his father's blessing. Rashid embodies the hope for a harmonious union between Muslim and Jewish communities and anchors the family’s stakes in the film’s finale.

Rashid's fiancée whose marriage to Rashid becomes a focal point for interfaith acceptance. Uzma's relationship with Rashid and her willingness to bridge communities underscore the film's themes of belonging and reconciliation.