What are your top ten favorite movies?
Mohammadeen
Introduction:
As an Islamic scholar, my appreciation for movies is not merely based on entertainment value, but also on their ability to convey meaningful messages and ethical lessons. Combining the power of storytelling with the wisdom of the Holy Quran, here are my top ten favorite movies that resonate deeply with Islamic values.
- The Message (1976) – Directed by Moustapha Akkad
“And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds.” (Quran, 21:107)
This film beautifully captures the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his message of compassion and mercy. - Bab’Aziz: The Prince Who Contemplated His Soul (2005) – Directed by Nacer Khemir
“Do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth [apart], and you will never reach the mountains in height.” (Quran, 17:37)
This movie’s focus on humility and spiritual reflection echoes the Quranic reminder of modesty and humanity’s place in the world. - The Lion King (1994) – Directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff
“And when his Lord tried Abraham with certain commands, he fulfilled them. He said: Lo! I have appointed thee a leader for mankind.” (Quran, 2:124)
The journey of Simba parallels the themes of leadership, responsibility, and returning to one’s true purpose that can be found in the story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham). - Life of Pi (2012) – Directed by Ang Lee
“And He it is Who produces gardens trellised and untrellised, and date palms, and crops of different shape and taste (its fruits and its seeds) and olives, and pomegranates, similar (in kind) and different (in taste). Eat of their fruit when they ripen, but pay the due thereof (its Zakat) on the day of its harvest, and waste not by extravagance. Verily, He likes not Al-Musrifun (those who waste by extravagance).” (Quran, 6:141)
This visually stunning movie explores the themes of survival, faith, and the beauty of God’s creation. - Malcolm X (1992) – Directed by Spike Lee
“O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.” (Quran, 49:13)
Malcolm X’s transformation and fight against racial injustice resonate with the Quranic call for unity and justice. - Freedom Writers (2007) – Directed by Richard LaGravenese
“O you who have believed, upon you is [responsibility for] yourselves. Those who have gone astray will not harm you when you have been guided.” (Quran, 5:105)
This film highlights the importance of education and empathy, aligning with the Quranic emphasis on self-improvement and guidance. - A Beautiful Mind (2001) – Directed by Ron Howard
“And be not like those who forgot Allah, so He made them forget themselves. Those are the defiantly disobedient.” (Quran, 59:19)
The challenges faced by the protagonist and his perseverance reflect the Quranic reminder to remember Allah and remain steadfast. - The Pursuit of Happyness (2006) – Directed by Gabriele Muccino
“And whoever fears Allah – He will make for him a way out. And will provide for him from where he does not expect.” (Quran, 65:2-3)
The film’s focus on determination, faith, and overcoming adversity aligns with the Quranic concept of trust in Allah’s plan. - Children of Heaven (1997) – Directed by Majid Majidi
“And whoever does righteous deeds, whether male or female, while being a believer – those will enter Paradise and will not be wronged, [even as much as] the speck on a date seed.” (Quran, 4:124)
The siblings’ selflessness and dedication to one another embody the Quranic values of kindness and mutual support. - The Miracle Worker (1962) – Directed by Arthur Penn
“Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves.” (Quran, 13:11)
The story of Helen Keller’s education underscores the Quranic principle that personal growth leads to positive change.
Conclusion:
These ten movies offer valuable insights into Islamic values, echoing the teachings of the Holy Quran. By examining the stories through the lens of an Islamic scholar, we can find connections between cinematic narratives and timeless spiritual lessons.
ISLAMIC LAWS 