Koran by heart: Analysis of the film's core themes and impact

This report provides an analysis of the documentary film 'Koran by Heart', focusing on its portrayal of Islamic culture, particularly the significance of the Quran. The film's setting in a Quran competition in Cairo, Egypt, and the journeys of three young boys are central to the analysis. The report highlights the character of Rifdha Rasheed and her aspirations, contrasting them with her father's traditional expectations. It discusses the film's intent to convey the core teachings of the Quran and its relevance in the face of Islamic fundamentalism. The analysis also considers the film's perspective on the emotional connection to the Quran, drawing on the works of Allison (2010) and Ansary (2009). The report emphasizes the film's focus on the dedication of young children to Islamic teachings, aiming to provide a global audience with a nuanced understanding of the religion.

The documentary film by Greg Baker ‘Koran by heart’ has been enlightening journey for me as
it provided an insight into perspectives related to importance of Koran. The film is set in the
backdrop of Quran Competition held in Cairo, Egypt during the holy month of Ramadan. The
film highlights the significance of Koran and value of reciting this text through the journey of
three 10 year old boys.
My favourite competitor is Rifdha Rasheed. She has aims and ambitions to achieve but her
conservative father is clear about the future he perceives for Rifdha. She possesses an
indomitable spirit and has the calibre to fulfil her dreams of becoming an explorer.
The rationale behind making this film according to me is to bring forward the moral teaching and
guiding principles of holy text book Koran and gain a greater understanding of diversity of
believers following Islam. This film is significant in the times of Islamic fundamentalism and
provides awareness regarding the powerful prophetic messages that needs to be disseminated
worldwide.
The interesting aspect of the film is that it provides a radicalised view of teaching of Koran and
elaborating it as a source of universe that is still unknown to many people. The film has
sublimely intertwined the stories of children and brings forward the social and cultural aspects of
believers of Islam. As influenced by Allison (2010), it not only tells the discrimination faced by
children in face of Islamic fundamentalism but the conservative society that still exists.
The film is targeting global audience and has no intentions to direct the film to particular sect.
The film aims to divert global attention that is different from the fundamental Islamic view as is
prevalent in the society as has been pointed by Ansary (2009).
The lessons learned that more than recitations of Koran it's the emotional attachment that brings
greater depth to meaning and teachings of this holy book. The film focuses on dedication and
determination of young children to imbibe holy teaching Islam in its purest form and help to
achieve betterment in life.

References
Ansary, T. (2009). Destiny disrupted: A history of the world through Islamic eyes. PublicAffairs.
Allison, A. (2010). Destiny Disrupted: A History of the World Through Islamic Eyes. By Tamin
Ansary.