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The Message [1975]
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RRP: £16.99
Our Price: £3.80 (subject to change)
Of interest to very pious Muslims only
Review date: 2007-12-11 Rating: 4 out of 10
I watched this DVD with a group of Muslims, all of whom were raving about it. However, as a more dispassionate observer, I found that it dragged on too long and, despite the rich subject material, even managed to be quite boring at times.
This is in large part due to something that non-Muslims will find bizarre - the central character, Mohammed (pbuh), never appears or speaks. This is to comply with the Muslim tradition that prophets should not be depicted for fear of idolatry. Consequently there were many stilted scenes during which the presence of Mohammed was implied and felt but not actually seen.
The effect of this was quite wierd, like watching a television programme aimed at young children where the presenter puts words into the mouth of a puppet sidekick. The poor director, Moustapha Akkad, was badly hamstrung by this restriction. A much more enjoyable example of his work is his excellent war movie, Lion of the Desert, also starring Anthony Quinn.
In conclusion, many devout Muslims regard "The Message" as a marvellous movie, but to my mind that is more a reflection of their devotion to the subject matter rather than a critical appraisal of the film based on its own merits. Although I expected to be impressed, I actually found this film to be quite tedious and could not recommend it to an impartial viewer. If you are genuinely interested in the early days of Islam, I suggest reading a good book such as Karen Armstrong's "Muhammad: Prophet for Our Time".
A sad postscript: director Moustapha Akkad, himself a Muslim, made "The Message" as an act of faith. "I felt that it was my obligation, my duty to tell the truth about Islam". He and his 34-year-old daughter, Rima Akkad Monla, were killed by an Al Qaeda suicide bomber at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Amman, Jordan in November 2005.
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Reviews
A TRUE FILM OF ISLAMIC REFLECTION
Review date: 2007-11-04 Rating: 10 out of 10
THIS IS A MAGNIFICENT FILM THAT DESCRIBES ALL THE STEPS OF HOW ISLAM BEGAN. THE FILM QUALITY IS OUTSTANDING WHICH IS GREATLY DIGITALLY REMASTERED. IT IS CLEAR WITH NO WIERD BACKGROUNDS OR FUZZY NOISES SO ITS ALL WORTH IT. A BEAUTIFUL FILM WITH ENDLESS ACTION AND MOMENTS OF THOUGHT ALL THROUGHOUT...
Compelling in the same league as Passion
Review date: 2007-04-10 Rating: 10 out of 10
The Message is a compelling and riveting cinema epic. I have to say that I am certainly moved everytime I watch this movie. It tries to be a factual and informative movie while not trangressing the limits set by Islam such as not seeing the person of Muhammad and some companions. This epic is certainly moving, it captures the essence of Islam and preaches the Oneness of God, and that Muhammad is His Messenger. It chronicles the life of Muhammad S.A.W. from when he received the first Divine Message up till his end. It examines the tribulations and greatness of prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) and tries to keep as though the viewer is there among them. Truly a captivating experience. I recommend it highly to al people irrespective of faith to deepen their knowledge of Islamic history.
Top Message!
Review date: 2005-12-28 Rating: 10 out of 10
Excellent insight into the beginning of Islam - excellent for both Muslims and non-muslims alike. Buy it, rent it, borrow it .... just make sure you see it!
Mashallah
Review date: 2005-08-30 Rating: 10 out of 10
This video briefly covers the the life of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) From the the beginning of the revelation till the final fairwell speech. It also includes heart taking events such as the death of his wife and uncle and the Holy Battles. Excellent short biography.
Product Details/Specifications
Actor(s):
Andre Morell
Michael Ansara
Irene Papas
Martin Benson
Anthony Quinn
Creators:
Anthony Quinn (Primary Contributor)
Irene Papas (Primary Contributor)
Director(s):
Recording label: Starz Home Entertainment
Manufacturer: Starz Home Entertainment
EAN: 5060020621321
Binding: DVD
Number of items: 2
Format: PAL,
Release date: 2003-02-24
Aspect ratio: 1.85:1
Audience rating: Parental Guidance
Region code: 2
Running time: 171 minutes
Theatrical release date: 1975
Language: English (Original Language)