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The only case of a film as much Hollywood as Islamic, “The message” by Mustafa Akkad tells how the Quranic revelation and the developments that faced the Muslim community in its beginnings like no other. A must for any self-respecting Ramadan
The message
The film tells in great detail the history of Islam from the revelation of the Quran to the prophet Muhammad to the expulsion from Mecca until the reconquest of the same by Muslims.
Regarding the figure of the prophet Muhammad, a veto was placed by the high Islamic offices, which forbade their representation in any form.
Return to the time of the prophet
The film is without a shadow of a doubt the best ever as regards the Quranic revelation, allowing us to better understand the scope of the prophetic mission, thus adapting it also to place and context. In fact, many happen to read the Quran lightly, regardless of the incredible progress that the latter has made to human civilization and, indeed, taking everything for granted. In “The Message” we will be able to really understand what it meant to say, for example, that: “all men are equal“, “you must not bury your daughters alive” or, again, “the one who goes to sleep while your neighbor suffers hunger“; things that seem trivial to us today, but which were the first reasons why people joined Islam.
Furthermore, it is also extremely valuable for understanding the difficulties that Muhammad and the first Muslims suffered, elements often condemned to be forgotten, but which are an example of incredible moral strength and tenacity, essential for such a great mission.
The film of Ramadan
A unique film of its kind, over the years it has become a real must for every Muslim, especially in Ramadan, of which it has become, in a certain sense, one of the symbols. Difficult (if not impossible) to find a product that can rival beauty, grandeur and fairness (both historical and religious), so much so that it has become one of the few films recommended by mosques as well.
The total physical absence of the figure of Muhammad, moreover, represents a unique case in the history of cinematography, giving even more charm to the whole and showing everyone the incredible talent of Akkad and elevating its glory. The film, due to some heavy complaints from Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, was shot mainly in Morocco and Libya and 2 versions were simultaneously produced, the only case in post World War II. The cast that composed the American version with actors of the caliber of Anthony Quinn, Irene Papas and Michael Ansara was also extraordinary; in addition, the soundtrack was edited by Maurice Jarre who during his life won 3 Oscar awards (the most famous of which for “Lawrence of Arabia”) and who with “The Message” obtained a nomination, albeit in that John Williams will triumph for the first Star Wars.
If there is an honest Hollywood film, well done and far from prejudice, it could only be this; available for free on Youtube.
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