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 | day for night | assassination attempt | reference to the bible | 

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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:

Biography | Drama | History | War

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Certificate:

PG

Did You Know?

Trivia

Nearly 40 years after its premiere in March 1976, a revised version of the film will be presented to international audience with 4K technology soon, it was announced during the 14th Dubai International Film Festival. The production is the result of collaboration between two companies, Transcas and Front Row, which have also made a new introduction to the film, to be screened worldwide. Front Line is an independent film distribution company based in Dubai with offices in Kuwait, Lebanon and Cairo. Transcas is a Los Angeles-based film production and distribution company operating all over the world. Its director is Malik Akkad, the son of late director and producer Mostafa Akkad.

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Quotes

Ammar: His eyes are shut but his heart is open

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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

Referenced in The Filth and the Fury (2000)

User Reviews

Definitely worth seeing!

This is a truly excellent movie. It is quite long, but has a beautiful score and engaging story.. Anthony Quinn is terrific.. The movie also provides a short overview of the early years of Islam and the story of its prophet Mohammad.

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)

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