The black and white cinematography in Fremont is beautiful and immersive. And although loneliness is a major theme, it is not a depressing or negative film at all. To the contrary, Fremont is one of those experiences that is heartfelt and uplifting.

Directed by Babak Jalali, Fremont gears on Donya (played by Anaita Wali Zada). Donya lives in Fremont, California. She previously worked as a translator for the United States government in Afghanistan, but somehow ended up working at a fortune cookie factory in Fremont, where she lives in an apartment with other Afghan immigrants. Donya’s life is in a complicated holding pattern, but Donya still feels that she can have a purpose to her life. Promoted to the job of creating fortunes at the fortune cookie factory, Donya sends out a special message in a cookie. She hopes people will find the fortune inspiring, and she believes the world will hear her. But how long will it take for good things to come Donya’s way? Fremont is about being persistence for positive change, and it is a wonderful and grandeur experience.

The film goes deep into the life of immigrants in America. Donya didn’t plan to end up in California. But due to her VISA status and other factors, she ended up there. She works with Dr. Anthony (played by Gregg Turkington) to help her understand her purpose and to understand and deal with her situation. Through her positive relationship with Dr. Anthony and her job of creating fortunes, Donya begins to find joy coming into her life.

As her life begins to improve Donya meets someone, Daniel (played by Jeremy Allen White). White played Lip in the hit series Shameless (2011-2021) and he’s currently in The Bear (2022-present). His natural shyness, kind personality, and friendliness are on full display in Fremont. Both Donya and Daniel are introverts, but Donya has some hidden conflicts she is dealing with. Despite this, though, Daniel finds Donya inspiring, and that is the key to Fremont. Donya has the power and the strength to inspire others, and she brings empathy and positive vibes.

Fremont is an encouraging film whose message is that if we keep putting in the efforts to do what is right, even in the face of very difficult circumstances, the efforts will pay off. The beautiful tone of Fremont’s black and white also brings a sense of calmness that surrounds the film. Three and a half out of four stars for Fremont.