Short Film Review: ‘All The Men I Met But Never Dated’ – A Heartfelt Exploration of Identity, Love and Social Expectations.

In ‘All The Men I Met But Never Dated‘, writer and director Muneeb Hassan brings a tender yet deeply evocative perspective to the complexities of queer love and acceptance within conservative cultures.

This short film captures the poignant story of Ali (played by Ahmed Shihab-Eldin), a closeted Muslim man faced with the tough decision between embracing a promising relationship with Oliver (played by Jared P-Smith) and upholding the family and faith that may not understand it. It’s a beautifully subtle film that uses a unique approach to explore the hidden challenges and quiet heartbreaks faced by individuals balancing love and identity within the restrictions of their family values.

Ali and Oliver spot each other at the gym and instantly strike a connection. After their first few dates and interactions, it’s obvious that they are both very attracted to each other. Ali on the other hand is holding back and cannot fully commit to them being together openly. He is from a conservative Muslim background, his faith and family values keep him from expressing his sexuality publicly.

Oliver eventually confronts Ali about this hesitation at a party that they are at together. He presses him to reveal the true reason for his reluctance. Ali’s response is heartbreakingly sincere, like many gay Muslims from conservative families, he feels the weight of protecting his family from the reality of who he is. While Oliver sympathizes, he makes it clear that he is proud and open about his identity and unwilling to live as a secret. Their conversation becomes a crossroads, one where Ali must decide if his love for Oliver is worth the upheaval it might bring to his life.

Ahmed Shihab-Eldin in All The Men I Met But Never Dated (2024)

One of the film’s most striking aspects is its treatment of the idea that some people find safety in secrecy. As Ali poignantly puts it, “The closet is where I feel safe.” This perspective challenges the common assumption that staying closeted equates to self-denial. For many like Ali, it’s about protecting loved ones from the inevitable rejection and stigma that could ripple out to affect not just themselves but their families. In cultures where honour and family reputation are highly prized, coming out can mean more than personal risk. It can carry societal consequences for their closest kin.

Oliver’s perspective is the opposing, yet equally valid, viewpoint. For him, being kept a secret feels like a prison sentence imposed by someone he’s supposed to love and be loved by. His desire for openness isn’t simply about visibility but about feeling valued and acknowledged. His frustration reminds us of the unspoken truth that being hidden by a partner can be just as isolating as any societal marginalization.

Ahmed Shihab-Eldin and Jared P-Smith inhabit their roles convincingly, lending weight to the film’s delicate, complicated narrative. Their performances add layers to their characters’ struggles, and their chemistry on-screen brings this difficult love story to life with nuanced innocence and vulnerability.

The film’s runtime of just 12 minutes feels surprisingly complete, as Hassan crafts the story concisely, avoiding embellishments. The beginning flows almost like a montage, with limited dialogue that allows us to watch their connection unfold organically. It’s in the critical confrontation scene, however, that the film truly finds its voice, using more dialogue to effectively to reveal the heart of its themes.

Jared P-Smith and Ahmed Shihab-Eldin in All The Men I Met But Never Dated (2024)

Technically, ‘All The Men I Met But Never Dated‘ is a well-put-together film. From its cinematography to its art direction, editing, and sound design, each element works in harmony to advance the narrative.

Through this narrative, Hassan invites us to ask difficult questions about love and identity. Does love have to be openly and publicly professed for it to matter? Or are the deepest connections sometimes forged and nurtured in secrecy, away from societal judgment and expectations? The film reminds us that self-love begins with self-acceptance, not necessarily with the hope that we’ll be accepted by others.

Though Ali’s journey is framed within a queer, interfaith relationship, his dilemma is universal. Many who have fallen in love, whether in heterosexual or same-sex relationships face similar challenges, where societal or familial expectations collide with personal desires. It’s a story of the sacrifices we make to preserve the love of those closest to us, even at the expense of our own happiness.

I will score this film 3.5 out of 5 stars.