Review by Sharon Abella
'Bilal,' is set to be the opening film at this years Cannes Film Festival 'Animation Day' on May 14, 2016.
'Bilal,' Directed by Khurram H. Alavi, and Co-Directed by Ayman Jamal, is inspired by the real life story of historical figure, Bilal Ibn Rabah (580-640 AD), and his struggle for equality and freedom. Bilal's life teaches humanity, the importance of racial equality, to stand together as one, without discrimination.
The film begins a thousand years ago, in an ancient land, when a young Bilal and his sister are playing in the desert. Bilal is
inquisitive and asks his mother what type of man his father was. When she replies that he was 'a great man,' Bilal shares that he wants to be a great warrior when he grows up. As enemy intruders swiftly invade their town on horseback, his mom knows danger is imminent. She locks the young Bilal and his sister in a shed, and instructs Bilal to keep his sister safe. Bilal's mother is killed, and as Bilal ages, he reflects back on his mother's reminders that 'his father was a great man, to protect his sister, and to be a warrior you must live a life with no chains.'
Bilal and his sister grow up being treated as poor slaves by the nasty Master Safwan, and his father, who is upset that Bilal has embarrassed him in public. Bilal is reminded that no one is born a slave, that we are all born as equals, and that he was once free. He is determined to break the chains of anger and vengeance he has been living, and gets on a horse and rides through the desert meeting people who will soon help him become the man he wants to become, spreading the message of equality, and fight the enemy that gets in his way.
Bilal is taught important messages by his peers. 'He who forgives will witness glory. Use your strength in your mind, and not a weapon. Build a home to inspire the hearts of men. His voice will inspire to speak for justice and equality.'
Once Bilal is awakened and skilled, he has to confront and fight off his Master and other enemy combatants.
Keep your mind clear, and your heart true! Have faith and stand strong! May the light prevail! God will always be there for you! Be
the better man, for a man is judged by his actions!
Bilal!
Sharon Abella NY correspondent