“Kingdom of Heaven” dispels Muslim stereotypes
Source: news.baou.com
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) said that the 20th Century Fox movie, "Kingdom of Heaven", is a "balanced" depiction of Islam that dispels stereotypical portrayals of Muslims.
The civil rights group based its decision after a private screening of the film at Fox studios in Los Angeles.
"Kingdom of Heaven" is expected to open in U.S. theaters by May 6th. The movie, by “Gladiator" director Ridley Scott, focuses on the 12th century period between the Second and Third Crusades, and it highlights the humanity sides of that decades-long conflict.
"Our overall impression is that 'Kingdom of Heaven' is a balanced and positive depiction of Islamic culture during the Crusades”, said CAIR-LA Communications Director Sabiha Khan. "Muslims are shown as dignified and proud people whose lives are based on morality,” she added.
Khan also said that one of the movie’s positive messages is that Muslims and Christians can live together in peace, adding that this will provide opportunity for increased interfaith dialogue.
"It is unfortunately a rare occasion when a Muslim filmgoer can leave the theater feeling good about a movie's portrayal of Islam.” said CAIR National Communications Coordinator Rabiah Ahmed. "This film managed to show the horrors of war without associating those horrors with a particular faith or culture,” he said.
Ahmed also thanked Fox for the private screening and for avoiding religious stereotypes.
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