Philosopher Ibn ‘Arabi spoke of Mecca as a central place of theophany, emphasizing that the Kaaba represents the heart of Being. He asserted that the Kaaba deserves complete respect because it embodies the essence of the divine heart. In Monte Albers de Leon’s work titled “Mecca,” New York City is likened to the Kaaba. Today, New York City stands as a modern center where significant events and groundbreaking ideas converge. However, it is also a city that constantly faces threats from external forces. The script “Mecca” explores what makes New York a remarkable city while highlighting the challenges it confronts.

New York City, much like Mecca—the holiest city in Islam and the gathering point for the annual Hajj pilgrimage—serves as a sacred place for capitalism. Every day, people from around the world arrive in New York City in search of a better life. Since the founding of the United States, individuals from various corners of the globe have been eager to make NYC their home, which has made the city susceptible to various unknown forces. However, it is the spirit of the average New Yorkers that truly makes NYC a unique and vibrant metropolis. The narrative of the script ‘Mecca’ also captures the essence of New York City and its diverse population.

The story of “Mecca” explores a variety of topics, including the experiences of Muslims in New York, the lives of average New Yorkers after 9/11, and elements of American popular culture, among others. Together, these topics provide an insight into 21st-century America. The narrative illustrates how a significant event has shifted the discourse surrounding New York and its residents. Interestingly, despite the tragic attack, the city endures, driven by the indomitable spirit of its inhabitants. Additionally, the story serves as a valuable examination of modern geopolitics, presented in a straightforward manner. Ultimately, it is a narrative about ordinary people, told by someone with a compassionate perspective. This combination makes the story unique and worth reading.

The story serves as a psychological exploration of the people of New York City, illustrating how their conversations have changed since 9/11. The attack has altered the psychology of New Yorkers, affecting individuals from all backgrounds—Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike. From cab drivers to CEOs, everyone feels the impact of the tragedy. This makes the script a compelling read. It draws readers in from the very first word and keeps them engaged, prompting them to wonder what will happen next. Reading ‘Mecca’ offers a profound experience, transporting readers to a world that is often overlooked. It resonates deeply, invoking empathy for the characters and shaking readers to their core.

The writer of the script, Monte Albers de Leon, has done an outstanding job. His storytelling demonstrates a strong command of his craft, and his mastery of language is impeccable. He skillfully blends Gen Z language with traditional American English. The pacing of the story shows his complete control over the narrative. His world-building provides insight into his political ideology and how he views the world. The best aspect of the script is that he subtly incorporates his perspectives without coming across as preachy. He has achieved a rare balance in conveying his ideas effectively.

The characters in the script are intricately developed, contributing to the creation of the story’s worlds. Each character serves as a keen representation of the average American mindset. Readers from any part of the world can relate to them and draw parallels to their own experiences. These characters act as a gateway to understanding different perspectives. Through their journeys, readers can perceive how the gradual changes in their lives are influenced by political factors.

After considering all the factors, I would give “Mecca” a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars. The primary reason for this high rating is Monte’s exceptional talent as a writer. The world-building captivated me, allowing me to create a vivid picture in my mind. I finished reading the script in one sitting, and I believe it has great potential to become an excellent film, even though it will require a substantial budget to produce. I’m eagerly looking forward to seeing it on the big screen. I also encourage aspiring screenwriters to read and study the script to gain insight into the art and craft of writing.