The Message is a 1976 historical-biographical film directed by Moustapha Akkad that focuses on the early life of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. The film dramatizes the emergence of Islam and the social and political challenges faced by the early Muslim community in Mecca. It was produced with two separate casts in Arabic and English.
Out of respect for Islamic cultural sensitivities, the film does not portray Prophet Muhammad directly; instead, it presents events from the perspectives of his companions. The Message has been widely examined both within the Muslim world and Western cinema circles for its historical and cultural significance.
Plot
The film depicts the socio-political structure of 7th-century Mecca and the struggle of the first Muslims under the oppression of the Quraysh polytheists. The narrative begins with Muhammad's prophetic revelation and follows significant milestones such as the first revelation, the spread of the Islamic message, the persecution of Muslims, the migration to Abyssinia, the economic and social boycott, the conversions of Hamza and Umar, and the Hijrah (migration) to Medina.
The story continues with key events like the Battle of Badr and the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, offering a comprehensive overview of the early expansion of Islam in Arabia. Although Prophet Muhammad is never shown directly, his presence is conveyed through lighting, camera angles, and the reactions of other characters.
The Message (Front row filmed entertainment)
Cast (English Version)
- Anthony Quinn – Hamza
- Irene Papas – Hind
- Michael Ansara – Abu Sufyan
- Johnny Sekka – Bilal
- Michael Forest – Khalid ibn al-Walid
- Damien Thomas – Zayd
- André Morell – Abu Talib
- Garrick Hagon – Amr
- Martin Benson – Jewish Scholar
- Ronald Chenery – Uthman ibn Affan
- Bruno Barnabe – Abu Jahl
Production
The Message was a co-production involving Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Libya, and the United Kingdom. Director Moustapha Akkad conducted extensive consultations with Islamic scholars to ensure religious sensitivities were respected throughout the production.
Filming took place in cities such as Marrakesh (Morocco) and Tripoli (Libya). Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi provided substantial financial support for the project. The film was shot simultaneously in Arabic and English,using seperate casts for each version.
Themes and Cinematic Approach
Blending historical accuracy with dramatic storytelling, The Message portrays the birth of Islam through the perspectives of the Prophet’s companions. Muhammad is never visually depicted; instead, the camera adopts his point of view to narrate events. Key themes include the process of revelation, the struggle of faith, the mission of proselytism, and the confrontation with polytheists.
Symbolic lighting and sound effects were employed to enhance the religious atmosphere, while traditional narrative techniques were favored. The film explores concepts such as faith, justice, social transformation, and spiritual devotion within a historical context.
Significance
The Message is considered a milestone in the cinematic portrayal of Islam. Aimed primarily at introducing the origins of Islam to Western audiences, the film has been screened in numerous countries. Its respectful treatment of Islamic sensitivities earned widespread appreciation among Muslim communities, while also sparking discussions on religious representation in cinema. In countries like Türkiye, it has become a traditional part of Ramadan television programming.
Awards
- 1978 – Academy Awards (Oscars): Nominated for Best Original Score (Maurice Jarre)
