The Message
The Message

The Message

1976Movie178 minEnglish

In sixth-century Mecca, Prophet Muhammad receives his first revelation from God as a messenger. Three years later, he's not alone in his quest and publicly declares his prophecy. Muhammad is fought by Abu Sufian and his wife Hind, rulers of Mecca. Muhammad's followers are hunted and tortured but he continues his calling.

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IMDb7.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes83%
Google Users90%
Director: Moustapha AkkadGenres: Biography, Drama, History, War

Plot Summary

The film chronicles the life of the Prophet Muhammad in the 7th century, focusing on his early struggles and eventual triumph in spreading the message of Islam. It portrays the societal and spiritual transformation of Arabia under his leadership, adhering to Islamic traditions that forbid the depiction of the Prophet himself. The narrative follows his divine revelations, the persecution faced by early Muslims, and the eventual establishment of Islam as a dominant faith.

Critical Reception

'The Message' was produced with the intention of fostering understanding of Islam and its origins. While it faced some controversy and criticism from certain Islamic groups for its artistic interpretation and the inherent challenges of depicting such a significant religious figure, it was generally well-received by audiences and critics for its epic scale, historical scope, and respectful portrayal of the era and its central figure. The film aimed for a balanced and informative depiction, making it a significant cinematic endeavor in religious historical drama.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its ambitious scope and educational value in explaining Islamic history.
  • Commended for its respectful and visually impressive depiction of 7th-century Arabia.
  • Noted for its challenge in portraying the Prophet indirectly, a common concern in Islamic filmmaking.

Google audience: Google users generally express high approval for 'The Message,' appreciating its informative content and grand production values. Many highlight its success in providing a comprehensive overview of the origins of Islam and its historical context, often finding it to be an inspiring and educational experience. The film is frequently recommended for its respectful portrayal and epic storytelling.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Original Score at the Academy Awards (Maurice Jarre).

Fun Fact

The film was produced in two versions simultaneously: one in Arabic and one in English, with different casts for the secondary roles to ensure authenticity and wider reach.

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