Hollywood is preparing a new epic film on the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) and the birth of Islam.
“[It] is not about division and conflict but will focus wholly on the rich values common to all Muslims, like compassion and tolerance,” producer Oscar Zoghbi said in a statement.
The movie, “The Messenger of Peace”, will be set during the time of Prophet Muhammad to portray the birth of Islam and is expected to be shot in the holy sites of Makkah and Madina in Saudi Arabia.
Zoghbi, who has contributed to the 1976 film “The Message”, regarded as the only epic to portray early Islam, said he appreciates the sensitivities and challenges linked with the subject.
He stressed that there will be no depiction of Prophet Muhammad on screen.
Islam prohibits the personification of any prophet of God in movies or dramas.
The Message, which was shot in Arabic and English versions, prompted worldwide controversy when it was rumored that Anthony Quinn was starring as the Prophet.
Instead, the Prophet and his companions were heard speaking off-camera but never directly shown.
The director signified Prophet Muhammad’s presence with light organ music and occasionally framed the film from the prophet’s point of view as he observed the actions of his followers.
Needed
The new movie will be the second English-language film of its kind made in the West to portray early Islam, producers said.
“In the 21st century there is a real need for a film that emotionally engages audiences on the journey that led to the birth of Islam,” said Hollywood director Ramsey Thomas, who will write the script.
He noted that the script will be in English, but the movie will be dubbed into other languages, in particular Arabic.
Executive producer of the new movie, Hajja Subhia Abu Elheja, also noted that over three decades, only one Hollywood movie, The Message, tackled the birth of Islam.
“It is telling that only one great historical film has ever been made about Islam, a religion with 1.5 billion followers, whereas Christianity has been the subject of over 30.”
Like Thomas, Abu Elheja agrees that media and the cinema industry in particular can help bridge the gap between the Muslim world and Western societies.
“Since 9/11, Islam’s image has suffered tremendously,” she said.
“Now more than ever it has become important to bridge the gap of understanding between Muslims and non-Muslims.”
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