There is an idiom that states we should not judge a book by its cover and the same sentiment applies to films that are independently created. Honestly speaking, one may view the film stills and storyline of the new movie BILAL and automatically assume it is of no substance. However as a seeker of truth and lover of historic storytelling I was intrigued to review this work of art.
BILAL is a PG-13 animated film that is produced by Barajoun Entertainment, which is an animation and visual effects studio in Dubai. As an adaptation inspired by a true story of an Islamic hero, BILAL recaptures the life of Bilal Ibn Rabah who lived during the 580-640 AD period and is known as the first Muezzin in history to call for prayer. Racial equality and justice for all is a theme that is spoken throughout the film in the form of a master and slave mentality. A spiritual resonance also permeates your being as you watch the rise and/or fall of the animated characters.
Admittedly in the beginning of the film, I was a bit worried that my attention span would not allow me to focus on the early life of the main character. Therefore I began to appreciate the film and storyline when BILAL (voiced by Jacob Latimore & Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje) reached his late teens and early adulthood. The animated quality suits this project well due to me imagining this recreation with live characters on a screen. Various wisdom nuggets are shared through the character Hamza (voiced by David B. Mitchell) and are reminders of how we should live our lives for the greater good of all humanity.
Parents, please be mindful that although this is an animated film some scenes may not be suitable for children under 13-years-old. Overall I truly enjoyed this film and found it to be quite enlightening. Also, music artists Akon and Red One are singing the featured track “Warrior” which is a new favorite movie tune of mine. BILAL was released to Houston theaters February 2, 2018 and is available in theater locations found here.
SYNOPSIS: 1,400 years ago, Bilal, a seven-year-old boy, with a dream of becoming a great warrior, is abducted into slavery with his sister and taken to a land far away from his home and thrown into a world where corruption and injustice rule all. Throughout his life he undergoes many hardships, through which he discovers an inner strength he did not realize he possessed. Through these experiences, Bilal comes to realize that if he is brave enough to raise his voice and choose his own path – everything becomes possible. It is through his courage, that he frees himself and ultimately his community; It is through the power of his voice and faith that his lifelong dream of freedom comes true. Bilal grows into a man who will inspire the world.
STARRING: Ian McShane, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Thomas Ian Nichols
RATING: PG-13
RELEASE DATE: February 2
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Waiting for so long, my children lover the trailer and memorised the song, but so sad cz we are in Tanzania can’t see it.
We love it high quality movie