Films About Arabia
“The Message”, 1976
Director: Moustapha Akkad
Also known as *Al-Risâlah*, this film is directed by Moustapha Akkad and focuses on the life and times of the Prophet Muhammad, founder of Islam. It chronicles the early days of Islam and its growth, marked by an emphasis on respect and mindfulness towards Islamic history without depicting the Prophet himself, following Islamic tradition.
Starring: Anthony Quinn, Irene Papas, Michael Ansara, Johnny Sekka, Michael Forest, Garrick Hagon, Damien Thomas, André Morell, Martin Benson, Robert Brown;
Production year: 1976;
Genre: drama, war, biography, history;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 177 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,1;
More information about the film “The Message” on the website imdb.com
“A Hologram for the King”, 2016
Director: Tom Tykwer
Starring Tom Hanks, this film is adapted from a novel by Dave Eggers. It tells the story of a struggling American businessman who travels to Saudi Arabia to sell a holographic teleconferencing system to the Saudi government, exploring themes of cultural clash, personal and professional redemption.
Starring: Tom Hanks, Omar Elba, Sarita Choudhury, Sidse Babett Knudsen, Tracey Fairaway, Jane Perry, Tom Skerritt, Michael Baral, Lewis Rainer, Alexander Molkenthin;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: comedy, drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 98 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,1;
“Theeb”, 2014
Director: Naji Abu Nowar
Set in the Ottoman province of Hijaz during World War I, this film focuses on a young Bedouin boy who embarks on a perilous journey across the desert. Directed by Naji Abu Nowar, “Theeb” beautifully captures the desert landscape and touches on themes of brotherhood, survival, and the end of an era.
Starring: Jacir Eid Al-Hwietat, Hassan Mutlag Al-Maraiyeh, Hussein Salameh Al-Sweilhiyeen, Jack Fox, Marji Audeh, Hmood Ali, Abdul Aziz Mousa, Baha Othman, Ali Omayan, Aswad Gasem;
Production year: 2014;
Genre: thriller, drama, adventure;
Duration: 100 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
More information about the film “Theeb” on the website imdb.com
“Wadjda”, 2012
Director: Haifaa Al-Mansour
Directed by Haifaa al-Mansour, this is the first feature film shot entirely in Saudi Arabia and the first by a female Saudi director. It tells the story of a young girl living in Riyadh who dreams of owning and riding a green bicycle, exploring societal norms and the challenges faced by women in Saudi society.
Starring: Waad Mohammed, Reem Abdullah, Abdullrahman Al Gohani, Ahd Kamel, Sultan Al Assaf, Alanoud Sajini, Rafa Al Sanea, Dana Abdullilah, Rehab Ahmed, Nouf Saad;
Production year: 2012;
Genre: drama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 98 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,5;
More information about the film “Wadjda” on the website imdb.com
“Black Gold”, 2011
Director: Jean-Jacques Annaud
Known as *Day of the Falcon* in certain markets, this film directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud is set in the 1930s in Arabia at the dawn of the oil boom. It narrates the story of two rival Arab emirates who make a truce but then face new challenges when oil is discovered between their territories.
Starring: Antonio Banderas, Tahar Rahim, Mark Strong, Freida Pinto, Riz Ahmed, Liya Kebede, Corey Johnson, Akin Gazi, Eriq Ebouaney, Lotfi Dziri;
Production year: 2011;
Genre: drama, adventure, war;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 130 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,6;
More information about the film “Black Gold” on the website imdb.com
These films, while focusing on various aspects of Arabian life, culture, and history, collectively offer a tapestry of narratives that reflect the complexity and beauty of this vast region. From historical epics to personal tales of growth and struggle, they provide a cinematic window into the rich and varied experiences of Arabia.
In conclusion, films about Arabia have long captivated audiences worldwide, offering a diverse mosaic of narratives that defy simplistic stereotypes and challenge our perceptions. From the epic grandeur of “Lawrence of Arabia” to the intimate human stories in contemporary cinema like “Wadjda,” these films span a spectrum of genres yet share a common thread in their rich portrayal of Arabian culture, landscapes, and historical contexts. As cinematic windows into the heart of the Arab world, they not only entertain but also educate and inspire, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of a region often misunderstood. As the film industry continues to evolve, the future holds promise for even more nuanced and compelling storytelling that will further bridge cultures and bring the vibrant tapestry of Arabia to global audiences.
