The 1976 Islamic epic The Message (Arabic title: Ar-Risālah) is a unique cinematic achievement directed by Moustapha Akkad. To reach both Western and Eastern audiences, Akkad filmed the movie simultaneously in two distinct versions—one in English and one in Arabic—using the same sets and script but different casts. How to Watch the Arabic Version with English Subtitles
While the English version is widely available, the Arabic version (Ar-Risālah) with English subtitles can be found on several platforms:
The Arabic version of the 1976 epic film The Message (also known as "Al-Risalah"
) is widely available on several platforms with English subtitles. Director Moustapha Akkad famously filmed both the English and Arabic versions simultaneously on the same sets Where to Watch with English Subtitles
: Numerous channels host the full Arabic version with English subtitles. Searching for "Al Risalah Arabic version English subtitles" will typically provide the most direct results. Internet Archive the message arabic version english subtitles
: You can find archived copies, though they are often split into multiple parts (e.g., Part 2 of 3 Restored 4K Release restored 4K version
was released in 2018, which includes both the English and Arabic versions on the same physical disc set. Key Differences Between Versions Arabic Version ( Al-Risalah English Version ( The Message Lead Role (Hamza) Abdullah Gaith Anthony Quinn Supporting Cast Iconic Arab cinema stars Western actors (e.g., Irene Papas) Authenticity Considered more realistic
by some because the language matches the historical context. Tailored for Western audiences to improve accessibility. Slightly longer, featuring some additional scenes Standard theatrical cut. direct link to watch the film?
Directed by Moustapha Akkad, the 1976 film The Message (originally titled Ar-Risalah) is a landmark of Islamic cinema, unique for being filmed simultaneously in both Arabic and English using two different casts. The 1976 Islamic epic The Message (Arabic title:
The Arabic version with English subtitles is often preferred by critics and audiences for its linguistic authenticity and extended runtime. Production History
Akkad’s goal was to bridge the gap between the Islamic world and the West. He shot every scene twice: first with an English-speaking cast (led by Anthony Quinn ) and then with an Arabic-speaking cast (led by Abdallah Gheith
). The production faced significant challenges, including a change in filming locations from Morocco to Libya and initial bans in several Middle Eastern countries due to religious sensitivities regarding the depiction of the Prophet Muhammad. Key Differences Between Versions
While the scripts and camera setups were nearly identical, the two versions differ in several ways: Epic visual language: Wide desert vistas, carefully composed
Runtime: The Arabic version is approximately 20 minutes longer (roughly 207 minutes compared to the English version's 180 minutes) and includes additional theological details and scenes.
Thematic Focus: Research suggests the Arabic version is more "Qur’an-centered," focusing on theological arguments for a Muslim audience, while the English version emphasizes shared moral values to appeal to a global audience.
Acting: Many viewers feel the Arabic cast, featuring icons like Mouna Wasef, provides more emotionally resonant and authentic performances.
I’ll assume you mean a review of the film The Message (1976) — Arabic version with English subtitles. Here’s a concise film review:
Classical Arabic (Fus'ha) is the language of the Quran and the poetry of pre-Islamic Arabia. The characters in the film speak in a stylized, majestic tone that matches the 7th-century setting. The English dub forces modern vernacular ("Hey, let's go!") into ancient mouths, which breaks immersion. The Arabic version maintains a reverent, epic dignity.