In the Muslim world, films and such dramas have been made for the youth under the supervision of research scholars, and they take you to such a distance that you can get a better understanding of the history along with the historical figures. Muslim and a student of history, by watching them, can understand his history in a better way. Although history cannot be presented in the exact same way, cinematic presentation along with sectoral beliefs impacts the storyline of movies and series based on Islamic history. This list includes famous movies and series on Islamic history that depict the scenario of the early Islamic era; however, their accuracy shall not be considered as fully authentic.
1. The Message
The Biopic of Islamic Prophet (P.B.U.H.). It didn’t show the Prophet in the film, and rightfully so. The events are covered on a factual basis. It was released in 1976 and was the first of its kind. The events are covered in detail according to scholarly accounts of the era. The movie is heartwarming and praised all around the world as a masterpiece depicting the events of the life of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H.). The movie inspired a lot of people to learn about Islam, and many converted, including the composer of the movie, which tells itself how influential this biographical film was.
2. Umar Series
A biographical drama series of the second Caliph, Umar Ibn Al Khattab, depicting events from his early life to his death. In the drama series, the journey of Prophet (P.B.U.H.) to Medina and what difficulties he faced against the Kufars of Mecca are covered. The emergence of Islam as a powerful force in Arab and victories over Romans and Persians are powerfully presented in this series. The characters of the companions of the prophet (P.B.U.H.) and their struggle and brotherhood are highlighted along with beautiful depictions of historical events and battles that led Muslims to glory. It is a must-watch for anyone trying to understand Islamic beginnings and is one of the best series on Islamic history.
3. Yusuf Prophet Series
A masterpiece that you must watch at least once in your life. The story is a gem on the life of prophet Yusuf. This film, made in Iran, was written and directed by Farajollah Salahshoor, who had to pay the price for it by giving his life. After that he wanted to expose the Jews by making a film on Jewish history but was strangely found dead during a journey. He is said to be poisoned by the Israeli agency Mossad.
This drama has 45 episodes covering the events of prophet Yusuf’s childhood and news of prophethood to how he was put in a can for three days by his brothers, and then he was sold in the market of Egypt by a caravan. Apart from this, after his youth, he was invited to a sin by Zulekha and how he had to bear the imprisonment of Zandan for not accepting the invitation of this sin and how the religious people who were pagans tried to take his life.
But despite all the difficulties, he spread the blessings of Allah in the whole of Egypt and made the whole community a great saint. Allah finally made him the king of Egypt. After 40 years, the separation ended. The entire family gathered once again. Seeing the emotional debate of Prophet Yaqoob and his son’s reunion, even the angels of heaven cried. You, too, will not be able to control your tears after seeing this scene in the drama series.
4. Shaheed E Kufa/Ali Series
Kufa was built in Iran after the conquest of Persia. The series covers events of the Caliphate of Hazrat Usman R.A. and Hazrat Ali R.A. The struggles of Muslims in that era of mischief of Ban nu Ummaya, along with covering important events and battles, are highlighted in this series. However, the presentation of some companions is not accurate; the series does give an account of events that eventually led to the tragedy of Karbala.
5. Men of Angelos
At number five is Farajollah Salahshoor’s another super hit Iranian drama series, Men of Angelos, which is based on the people of the cave, mentioned in the Quran in Surah Al Qahf. Allah made them a sign for the coming days that whoever faces difficulties in the way of Allah and battles, then breaking the laws of nature is not difficult for Allah. This drama was released in 1997 and is filmed in such a beautiful way that it will strengthen your belief in Allah even in the most difficult situations.
6. Mukhtar Nama
And finally there is Mukhtarnama. It was released in 40 installments in 2010. It covers the life of Mukhtar Al-Thaqafi and the reality of the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) and events of Karbala. How Mukhtar Al-Thaqafi avenged the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his family by identifying the culprits one by one and killing them. The most special thing about this drama is the scenes of Karbala. The scene of martyrdom has been shown in such a realistic way that even the strongest of hearts could not control their emotions and cried. What about the king Yazid after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and the attack of Yazid’s army on Khana Kabab after the insult of Imam Hussain R.A. and his AHL-e-Bait and all the important events after the tragedy of Karbala in the darkest times of Islamic history.