The Message (1976)

This epic historical drama chronicles the life and times of Muhammad and serves as an introduction to early Islamic history.

Director:

Moustapha Akkad

Writers:

H.A.L. Craig, Tewfik El-Hakim

Stars:

Anthony Quinn, Irene Papas, Michael Ansara

Nominated for 1 Oscar.

Cast

Cast overview, first billed only:
Anthony Quinn	...	Hamza
Irene Papas	...	Hind
Michael Ansara	...	Abu Sofyan
Johnny Sekka	...	Bilal
Michael Forest	...	Khalid
Garrick Hagon	...	Ammar
Damien Thomas	...	Zaid
André Morell	...	Abu-Talib
Martin Benson	...	Abu-Jahal
Robert Brown	...	Otba
Rosalie Crutchley	...	Somaya
Bruno Barnabe	...	Umaya
Neville Jason	...	Jaafar
John Bennett	...	Salool
Donald Burton	...	Amr

Storyline

In the 7th century, Mohammed, Peace Be Upon Him, is visited by Angel Gabriel who urges him to lead the people of Mecca and worship God. But they're exiled in Medina before returning to Mecca to take up arms against their oppressors and liberate their city in the name of God (Allah).

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Plot Keywords:

7th century | mecca | key character never on screen | prophet | epic | 

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Taglines:

In four decades only four... "The Robe" "The Ten Commandments" "Ben-Hur" and now... For the first time...the vast, spectacular drama that changed the world!

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Genres:

Adventure | Biography | Drama | History | War

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Certificate:

PG

Details

Country:

Lebanon Libya Kuwait Morocco UK Saudi Arabia

Language:

English Arabic

Release Date:

8 July 1977 (France)

Also Known As:

Mohammad: Messenger of God

Filming Locations:

Libya

Box Office

Budget:

$10,000,000 (estimated)

Gross USA:

$15,000,000

Company Credits

Production Co:

Filmco International Productions

Technical Specs

Runtime:

177 min

Sound Mix:

4-Track Stereo (Germany) Mono

Color:

Color (Eastmancolor)

Aspect Ratio:

2.35 : 1

Did You Know?

Trivia

This is the first Arab film to be shown in Saudi Cinemas after a 35 year ban.... Saudi being the cradle of Islam.

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Quotes

Bilal: The Ink of a scholar is holier than the blood of a martyr A man reading is handsome in the sight of god. So, learn to read and when you have learned teach.

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Alternate Versions

Director Moustafa Akkad wanted the story to be told in English, so people all around the world could enjoy it. Also, he felt he needed to pay a tribute to the Middle East, where it took place. So two versions were shot on location simultaneously. There were two actors for each role and the one that is well known now is the English Version, starring Anthony Quinn. However, "Al Risalah" (the Arabic movie) is the other well known version in Saudi Arabia and the surrounding countries.

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Connections

Featured in The Making of an Epic: Mohammad Messenger of God (1976)

User Reviews

The message of truth

I was assigned to view this movie for class. From what I have learned thus far, this movie is the best representation of the truth about Islam. With all that is going on in the world today and many people's misconceptions about Islam this is a must see for all.

Not only is it an educational masterpiece... The Message has a brilliant musical score, beautiful cinematography, a wonderful script, and terrific acting. If your video stores do not carry it, order it from Amazon.com and learn the truth about the origins of the worlds fastest growing religion and what it stands for.