A movie with a message

Russia Today, October 29, 2008, 16:41

The second English-language film about the prophet Muhammed (Peace and blessings of God be upon him) is to go into production soon.
The original, named "The Message" and sponsored by Lybian leader Muammar Gadaffi, sparked a lot of controversy back in 1977.

After rumours spread that actor Anthony Quinn was picked for a role of Mohammed, a dozen Muslims demanded that the film be destroyed, taking 149 people hostage in Washington. As a result of the stand-off, two people died.

When the movie was eventually screened, most Muslims deemed it 'respectful'. As, according to belief, neither the prophet's image can be depicted nor his voice heard, Anthony Quinn ended up playing the a part of the prophet's uncle Hamza. The director, Moustafa Al-Aqqad (Akkad), used light and organ music when he wanted to indicate Mohammed’s presence and put the prophet’s speech into other characters' mouths.

Al-Aqqad, the Syrian-born executive producer of Hollywood's "Halloween" horror films, died in an al-Qaeda suicide-bomb attack in a luxury hotel in Amman, Jordan, on November 9, 2005. His 34-year-old daughter, who accompanied him to Jordan, also died of injuries sustained in the attack.

Now, a new film, called “The Messenger of Peace”, will use new technology and a new approach.

"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 scriptwriter Ramzi Thomas.

The film’s producer, Oscar Zoghbi, who took part in the production of “The Message”, added that the new project will employ modern film techniques in attempting to convey the first film's core messages.

The production team promise to release funding and production information in due course.