Hold up is a thought-provoking film which compels the viewer to question their own views of the world, especially in regards to homeless immigrants. The powerful nature of this film can be accredited to the excellent way in which the story is presented. Where we are made to relate to Graham’s hesitations and nervousness when he is first approached by Hashim and as such we too feel a part of the journey Graham goes on.

The camera angles and close ups used to introduce Hashim are perfect at creating a form of intensity and a feeling of trepidation towards his character, that reflects Graham’s own feelings. But as the story progresses we come to realise that Hashim is not only a likeable person but only wants food, comfort, and a friend. This leads Graham to question his own dissatisfaction with world and why he may support social justice causes such as BLM but not support a black homeless man by offering him a bed. Hold Up is an extremely powerful film that forces the audience to question their own preconceptions of not only Hashim but homeless people in general and asks why people so often ‘stare right through them’.