Riz Ahmed is a British Pakistani rapper battling illness in “Mogul Mowgli,” a drama opening Oct. 1 at Nebraska’s Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center. Continuing to show is “Ema.”
On the brink of his first international tour, Zed (played by Ahmed) opts to fly home to the United Kingdom and visit family he has not seen in two years. As he works to reconnect with his parents, Zed is struck down by an autoimmune disease. When his condition worsens, threatening his breakthrough moment, Zed falls into a physical and emotional crisis amplified by surreal hallucinations.
“Mogul Mowgli,” which is not rated, is the debut narrative feature by Bassam Tariq, an award-winning documentary filmmaker. It shows at the ross through Oct. 14.
Also showing is “Ema,” a Chilean drama that explores emotional trauma and a mother’s self-discovery.
Directed by Pablo Larraín, “Ema” features Mariana Di Girolamo as the title character, an artistic free spirit who — along with her husband, Gastón (played by Gael García Bernal) — is part of an experimental dance troupe. Their lives are thrown into chaos when their adoptive son, Polo, is involved in a shocking incident.
The couple opts to abandon their child and their marriage crumbles. In the wake of their decision, Ema embarks on an odyssey of liberation and self-discovery as she dances and seduces her way into a daring new life.
“Ema,” which is rated R for strong sexual content, nudity and language, shows at the Ross through Oct. 7.
Show times and ticket details are available online or by calling the Ross film information line at 402-472-5353.
