The Digital Minbar: Muslim Filmmaking in the Modern Era

Samir

Assalamu alaikum, and welcome to 'The Digital Minbar,' where we explore the evolving landscape of media and its impact on Muslim narratives. I’m your host, Samir, and today we're diving into a truly exciting transformation: the digital revolution in filmmaking and how it’s empowering Muslim creators like never before. Joining me is filmmaker Fayssal Benhaida, and our engaging co-host, Layla. Fayssal, welcome back!

Fayssal

Wa alaikum assalam, Samir. It’s wonderful to be here. This is a topic I’m incredibly passionate about because, for the first time in a long time, the tools to shape our own narrative are truly in our hands, especially for our Muslim youth who are digital natives.

Layla

Hi, Fayssal! I’m so excited to dive into this. For decades, the film industry felt like an impenetrable fortress, with a few gatekeepers deciding whose stories were told. How has the digital revolution changed this dynamic?

Fayssal

It’s been a seismic shift. The traditional gatekeepers – major studios, distributors – no longer hold exclusive power. This system often deemed Muslim stories too 'niche' or 'unmarketable.' From an Islamic perspective, this presented a spiritual challenge. Many Muslim filmmakers faced a difficult choice: compromise their values or struggle for a platform. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught us that 'The best jihad is a word of truth in front of a tyrannical ruler.' While not tyrannical, the industry's power structures made speaking truth difficult.

Samir

And now? How has this changed for Muslim filmmakers?

Fayssal

Now, affordable technology and self-distribution platforms have leveled the playing field. Independent creators, including Muslim filmmakers, can compete. This democratization aligns beautifully with Islamic principles of adl (justice) and musawah (equality), creating space for voices that have long been silenced or misrepresented. It’s a chance for our youth to see themselves reflected authentically.

Layla

That’s amazing! The rise of OTT streaming and VOD services seems to be a game-changer. How does this specifically benefit Muslim filmmakers?

Fayssal

Immensely. Just a decade ago, reaching global audiences meant complex distribution deals and often sacrificing creative control. Today, platforms like Amazon Prime, Vimeo On Demand, even YouTube, allow filmmakers to share their work globally with a few clicks. As a marketer, I see the power in this direct-to-consumer model. For Muslim filmmakers, this direct connection is invaluable. It allows us to present authentic Islamic perspectives without them being filtered or distorted. The Qur’an reminds us: 'O you who have believed, fear Allah and speak words of appropriate justice' (33:70). Direct distribution gives us greater freedom to speak these words of truth.

Samir

Some are even creating their own platforms, I hear. Can you tell us more about that?

Fayssal

Yes! Imagine platforms dedicated to halal entertainment or thoughtful films exploring Islamic themes. These are now within reach for entrepreneurial Muslim creators, providing curated content for our youth that aligns with their values. This is a significant step forward in ensuring that our stories are told by us, for us.

Layla

Building a community around your work is crucial. How has social media transformed this aspect for filmmakers?

Fayssal

Social media allows filmmakers to build loyal followings and generate buzz through behind-the-scenes content, teasers, and interactive campaigns. Community building (ummah) is fundamental to our faith. Social media allows Muslim filmmakers to build digital communities, connecting with viewers who share their values. As an advertiser, I can tell you these platforms offer precision tools for reaching intended audiences – targeting niche groups with remarkable accuracy. If you’ve made a documentary about Muslim environmental activists, you can reach people interested in both Islam and environmentalism – a specific audience that traditional marketing might miss.

Samir

The ability to collaborate online has also been transformative, hasn’t it? Especially for those working with limited budgets.

Fayssal

Absolutely. Cloud-based editing, project management tools, virtual meetings – production has become more flexible and cost-effective. Filmmakers can assemble global teams. This resonates with Islamic principles of ta’awun (cooperation) and ukhuwwah (brotherhood/sisterhood). The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The believers in their mutual kindness... are just like one body.' Online tools allow Muslim filmmakers to embody this, supporting each other across borders. This efficiency can be the difference between a project being completed or abandoned, especially for our young, aspiring filmmakers.

Layla

One of the most exciting developments you’ve highlighted is modern lip-sync technology. How is this breaking down language barriers for Muslim storytellers?

Fayssal

This is revolutionary. AI can now synchronize actors’ lip movements with dubbed audio, making content feel native in multiple languages. This dramatically increases authenticity and emotional impact for international audiences. Stories that might have remained confined can now reach diverse global communities, including the vast, multilingual Muslim ummah. The Qur’an speaks of the diversity of languages as a sign of Allah’s creative power (30:22). This technology allows us to honor that diversity while communicating across linguistic differences, sharing our narratives with Muslim youth everywhere, in their own languages.

Samir

And, of course, the democratization of equipment and software has lowered the financial barriers to entry significantly. Can you elaborate on that?

Fayssal

The cost of high-quality filmmaking gear has plummeted. Aspiring filmmakers can assemble a professional-grade kit for under $2,000. Cameras like the Panasonic GH5 are affordable on the used market. Powerful editing software like DaVinci Resolve is even available for free. This accessibility aligns with the Islamic principle of ‘ilm (knowledge) being available to all. More Muslims can now participate in filmmaking, sharing their perspectives. This is particularly empowering for youth who have stories to tell but previously lacked the means.

Layla

As we embrace these technological changes, how do they align with broader Islamic values and principles?

Fayssal

The concept of taskhir in Islam – Allah subjecting the natural world to human use for beneficial purposes – is key here. The Qur’an states: 'And He has subjected to you whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth - all from Him' (45:13). These technologies are manifestations of taskhir. When used with right intention, they can serve da’wah (invitation to Islam through authentic storytelling), islah (reform by challenging stereotypes), and ihsan (excellence in our creative work).

Samir

So, what are some practical applications for Muslim filmmakers, especially the younger generation eager to make their mark?

Fayssal

First, start where you are. Don’t wait for perfect conditions. The Prophet (peace be upon him) advised us to take advantage of our youth, health, and free time.