Basically, this allows us to tune off a lot of our brain, which allows it to better restore its willpower reserves.

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The uninspired, generic Hollywood score often makes the premise feel preposterous rather than moving, but there are some high points, including a gorgeous Michael Hedges tune that gets passed off as an original by August (which he plays the first time he picks up a guitar) and a gospel number featuring a solo by the preternaturally gifted young singer Jamia Simone Nash.

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As the two pilgrims tiptoed back into the room designated as our office space, Mohammed's mobile phone alarm started off a shrill tune.

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