The Message (30th Anniversary Edition)

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Starring: Anthony Quinn
Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Type: DVD
Directed By: Moustapha Akkad
Studio: Starz / Anchor Bay
Release Date: 2005-11-01
Running Time: 177 minutes
Number of Items: 2
Producer-director Moustapha Akkad made a true labor of love out of The Message, which seeks nothing less than to tell the story of the origins of Islam. Originally released in the U.S. as Mohammad, Messenger of God, the film has the appeal of most biblical epics: persecuted true believers, a revolutionary prophet scorned by the powers-that-be, and the miraculous triumph of faith. It also has the cheesiness of many biblical epics, with nose-flaring performances and awkward dialogue, but the whole mish-mash is generally entertaining (and informative for those unversed in the "origin stories" of Islam). Akkad had one major hurdle; he couldn't portray the person or voice of Mohammad himself, as such things are traditionally forbidden in Islam. To say the least, this presents an interesting narrative challenge. Akkad tackles it by having characters address the camera-as-Mohammad, or having disciples step out of Mohammad's tent to repeat what the prophet has just said. It's a weird device, but the surprising thing is how often you forget about it. Akkad is aided by some topnotch technicians, including cameraman Jack Hildyard (The Bridge on the River Kwai) and composer Maurice Jarre (whose score was Oscar-nominated); Anthony Quinn, Irene Papas, and Michael Ansara lead the cast.

Also included in the two-disc set is the Arabic-language version of the film, which was shot at the same time with different actors. (It comes without English subtitles.) It runs about 20 minutes longer than the English version; Akkad explains, in a helpful 44-minute making-of documentary, that Arab styles of storytelling (including pacing) and acting are quite different than in the West. Akkad would also make Lion of the Desert and executive-produce the Halloween pictures. He died in the November 2005 terrorist bombings in Jordan. --Robert Horton

Very Moving Film
This film is actually a documentary that presents the history of the beginning of Islam. The movie shows viewers many of the basic tenets of Islam.

The film shows the hardship and the sacrifices early Muslims had to face in order to adhere to this new religion. The atrocity and torture by non-believers toward new comers to Islam was so unbearable that many lost their belongings, others were killed under torture, and others were forced to exile.

This is a good movie about the early days of Islam.

The Best Picture I have ever seen !!!!
This is the best picture i have ever seen. It covers all the major events of Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H). Its a movie worth watching. I am watching this movie since i was 12 yrs old and till now when I am 29 I still watch it because this movie is EVER GREEN !!!!! The picture is very well directed, great music. I would recommend every one to watch this movie !!!!! You will defanately fell in love with it!!!!

Love the movie and happy to have it
Been waiting for the movie for a long time since it is a hard to find movie

Middle Eastern Epic
Created more than thirty years ago, a faith reflecting historical epic movie of an Islam dawn and spreading round a region ought probably better be comprehended from its modern application to a post-2001 world of which a filmmaker himself became a victim of a terrorist act in Jordan-2005.

A film for people of all religions
The Message is a truly beautiful film that portrays the origins of Islam, as well Christians and Jews, in an extremely positive light. I frequently show my students this film and it is well enjoyed. The acting is superb.

Reading these reviews, I am delighted that so many people feel the same as me! Bush and Cheney should see this film. And it is such a shame that the Arabic version of the film has no English subtitles - and vice versa. The Message should be understood by all people, the hard of hearing and speakers of different tongues. Let's have a Special Edition!!