The Message

No doubt, films are the greatest media to represent history now-a-days. Film reaches to the ‘digital’ generations who are less interested in books and make them aware of the glorious histories of the countries along with the notorious histories of the enemies. And films can do this so effectively that the viewers don’t endeavor finding the facts whether they are true rather believing the history. Examples are in your hand! Remember the movies regarding holocaust – The Pianist, Life is Beautiful or Schindler’s list – all representing the Second World War history influencing your emotion and you can’t deny their efforts, although historians are still arguing.

Its matter of great sorrow that glorious Muslim history is almost neglected in films. If you google the internet, you will find only one name – The Message – a great film representing the glorious Islamic history. Although it’s a 1976-film, it signifies the time of dearest prophet Muhammad (pubh).

The film reveals the first years of early Islamic history. In the 7th century, Muhammad (pubh) became the prophet and started inviting people towards Islam, to worship only one Allah. The followers of Muhammad (pubh) are offended by the rulers of Mecca. They had to leave Mecca for Madina and return to Mecca again with triumphant victory. This long history has been described in the film with great skill. Some important historical events like Battle of Badr and Battle of Uhud are depicted in the movie. You will find some legendary characters like Hamza bin Abd al Muttalib, Bilal, Khalid, Zayed, Abu Sofyan, Hind bint Utbah, Ammar, Heraclius etc. in the movie. The story is told from the point of view of Hamza, Abu Sofiyan and Hind bint Utbah.

Poster of The Message

However, prophet Muhammad (pubh) is not depicted on screen, even his voice is not heard. The same rule is used for his wives, daughters, and son’s in law. That’s why the battle of Badr and Uhud is commanded by Hamza although the actual battle was led by Prophet (pubh). The presence of Prophet (pubh) is depicted by light organ music. All these things make the movie more interesting and believable. Even Hazrat Ali’s sword Zulfiqar is seen in the battle scenes.

This great movie was directed by Moustapha Akkad, a Syrian filmmaker. The film is also titled as ‘Muhammad, the Messenger of God’ in English. The film was nominated for Oscar in Best Music category.

This movie is widely available in the movie shops. If you want to taste the time of Prophet (pubh), you must watch the movie!

Naimul Hamid