10 Must-Watch Muslim Biopic Films

Description: This epic film chronicles the life of the Prophet Muhammad, focusing on the early years of Islam. It's a must-watch for its historical significance and the respectful portrayal of Islamic teachings.

Fact: The film was made with the approval of the Al-Azhar University in Cairo, ensuring its authenticity. It was also the first major film to depict the life of Muhammad without showing his face.

Description: This film tells the story of Omar Mukhtar, a Libyan resistance leader who fought against Italian colonization. It's a powerful tale of resilience and faith.

Fact: The film was banned in Italy for many years due to its portrayal of Italian forces. Anthony Quinn, who played Mukhtar, was of Mexican descent but embraced the role with great passion.

Description: While not exclusively a Muslim biopic, it delves into the life of Amir, a young Afghan boy, exploring themes of friendship, betrayal, and redemption against the backdrop of Islamic culture.

Fact: The film was shot in China due to security concerns in Afghanistan. It also faced some controversy for its depiction of certain cultural practices.

Description: This film recounts the kidnapping and murder of Daniel Pearl, a Wall Street Journal reporter, and the subsequent search led by his wife, Mariane Pearl, who is of Afro-Cuban and Dutch Jewish descent but converted to Islam.

Fact: Angelina Jolie, who played Mariane Pearl, met with her to understand her experiences better. The film was shot in India to replicate Karachi, Pakistan.

Description: This film tells the harrowing true story of Soraya Manutchehri, an Iranian woman stoned to death for alleged adultery, highlighting issues of gender inequality and honor killings in some Muslim societies.

Fact: The film was based on a book by Freidoune Sahebjam, who met Soraya's aunt in Iran. It received widespread attention for its graphic depiction of stoning.

Description: Based on the novel by Mohsin Hamid, this film explores the life of Changez, a Pakistani man in New York, whose identity and beliefs are challenged post-9/11.

Fact: The film was shot in multiple locations including Pakistan, India, and the USA. It was also one of the first major films to tackle the theme of identity crisis in the Muslim diaspora.

Description: While not a traditional biopic, this film features a Muslim character, Tom, who is a lighthouse keeper, and explores themes of love, loss, and moral dilemmas within a Muslim context.

Fact: The film was shot in New Zealand, standing in for Australia. It was adapted from the novel by M.L. Stedman.

Description: This film follows the Kadam family, who open an Indian restaurant in France, showcasing the cultural clash and eventual harmony between Indian and French cuisines and cultures.

Fact: The film was shot in various locations in France, including Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val. It was inspired by the novel of the same name by Richard C. Morais.

Description: Set in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, this animated film tells the story of Parvana, a young girl who disguises herself as a boy to provide for her family, highlighting the resilience of Muslim women.

Fact: The film was produced by Angelina Jolie and was based on the novel by Deborah Ellis. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

Description: This film delves into the life of Hassan, a Pakistani-American, who becomes embroiled in a terrorist plot, exploring themes of identity and radicalization.

Fact: The film was directed by Joseph Castelo, who also co-wrote the screenplay. It was one of the first films to address the issue of homegrown terrorism in the U.S.