A Complete True Story Of How Islam Spread
This epic historical drama chronicles the life and times of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.V.) and serves as an introduction to early Islamic history.
The Message (Ar-Risālah; originally known as Mohammad, Messenger of God) is a 1976 Islamic epic drama film directed and produced by Moustapha Akkad, chronicling the life and times of the Islamic prophet Muhammad through the perspective of his uncle Hamza ibn Abdul-Muttalib and adopted son Zayd ibn Harithah.
In the 7th century, Muhammad, 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).
In accordance with Islamic law, director Moustapha Akkad’s biopic of Mohammad (pbuh) never actually depicts the prophet himself, but rather outlines his story through the lives of certain cardinal figures in his life. Abu Sofyan (Michael Ansara), the leader of Mecca, Mohammad’s uncle, Hamza (Anthony Quinn), and others chronicle the persecution of the earliest Muslims, their escape to Medina and their eventual victorious return to Mecca under the prophet’s leadership.
Director: Moustapha Akkad
Genres: Adventure | Biography | Drama | History | War
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
The Message was shot in two versions, one in English and one in Arabic (entitled Al-Risalah), with different actors taking over some of the roles due to language requirements.
See Al Risalah – The Message – Full Movie – Original