David & Layla, a.k.a  Kosher & Halal

 Inspired by a true story.

I've not seen anything as good, as fresh, or as funny in a long time. There could not be a better story for our time.  An intelligent script that mixes comedy with drama and the tragic background of Kurdish Layla.  Stunning, sensual Muslim Layla is the orphan survivor of 'Kurdish 9/11': Saddam's gassing of her hometown Halabja in which her family was among the 5000 murdered. Now a refugee in New York, Layla becomes David's object of mad desire. There follows a fast sending up of similarities and differences between the two cultures that ends with the two sides finding they have a lot more in common humanity than they had imagined.   This enlightening story of clash and reconciliation of cultures is timely and timeless.

David D'Arcy, Film and Culture Critic, NPR, New York

An interesting piece…I recognize the merits of the project. I greatly enjoyed the premise of the script...the many characters…were well used. I especially liked the supporting cast, such as David & Layla’s parents, and felt their scenes painted a vivid picture of the issues and differences that threaten the couple’s relationship…

Jason Kliot, President, Open City Films, New York.

Unusual, bold premise. Inspired, comedic plot of a taboo subject never filmed before: the marriage of a Jew to a Muslim. Quickly won me over despite initial lack of enthusiasm for story theme. Moves along at a fast pace: constantly engaging with surprising twists. Original story is sprinkled with just the right humor to contrast with its drama and tragic background. Wonderful characters- well drawn out. Humor is terrific and gets funnier as story unfolds…wedding scene is very funny...

Godfrey Cheshire, Ex-Chair, New York Film Critics Circle

Very funny… You have a great story and very intelligent, humorous insights into an (always) timely topic. Keep us updated on your progress ... it's a good project.

 David Benin, Director of Development, Cine Blast, New York

Thank you for sending me your script which I enjoyed reading. An interesting concept which much to recommend it...could be a compelling and funny story…best of luck moving the project forward.

Elinor Day, Deputy Head of Production, FILMFOUR4, London

Quite enjoyable… authentic characters - is David based on your own biography? Much more sophisticated than ‘East is East’ film.

Catherine Townsend, ex- Director Development & Acquisitions, Capitol Films, London

I admire the style and energy and distinctive voice of the work and your writing…

Leslee Udwin, Producer of ‘East is East’, Assassin Films Ltd., London

Thanks for sending your well-written, humorous script.  [Gill Holland has now joined David & Layla as an Associate Producer.]

Gill Holland, President, Cine Blast, New York

I have read the script and like it very much ....you have a really fun and meaningful project in front of you in 2004! --Very best.

Jytte Jensen, Associate Curator, Selection Member of 'New Directors/New Films' MoMA/Lincoln Center Film Festival

Congratulations on a great story.  The lead characters are strong and believable, as are the supporting cast. They all deserve appropriate ‘name’ talent.  The humor is out-loud laughable. I'd, without a doubt, love to be a part by producing your film. I think this story deserves top notch and rushing it would be a big mistake.      

 Michael J. Zampino, New York Independent Film Producer

About Jay Jonroy, Writer/Director/Producer at CV Resume