The Misrepresentation of Muslims in Film: Examining Biased Portrayals and Their Impact

For several decades, Hollywood and other media companies around the world presented Muslims in faulty and biased ways. These depictions frequently strengthen harmful stereotypes, reinforcing the notion that all Muslims are violent extremists. As a result, Muslims have faced discrimination and marginalization, and their communities have been stigmatized unfairly. This article explores the impact of misrepresentation on Muslims and their communities, as well as some of the reasons for this ongoing issue in the film industry.

Film media has a long history of perpetuating stereotypes and prejudices, which is especially evident in depictions of Muslims and Islam. Unfortunately, many films have portrayed Muslims and their faith in a biased and demeaning manner, perpetuating negative stereotypes and fueling Islamophobia. Stereotypes are one of the most common ways in which Muslims are portrayed in film media. Muslims, for example, are frequently portrayed as terrorists, fanatics, or backward and uncivilized people. This type of portrayal is not only untrue but also harmful, as it can lead to Muslims being marginalized, discriminated and persecuted in real life.

In addition to stereotypes, film media frequently portray Islam and Muslims in a condescending and paternalistic light. This perspective depicts Muslims as in need of Western intervention or enlightenment, with Western characters serving as saviors, bringing civilization and modernity to a supposedly backward and uncivilized Muslim world. This portrayal is not only offensive, but it also ignores Islam’s and Muslim societies’ rich history and culture.

One instance is the 1998 film “The Siege,” which portrayed Muslim terrorists taking over New York City and the ensuing military response. The film portrayed Muslims as violent, fanatical, and inclined to murder innocent civilians, perpetuating prejudices and contributing to Muslim vilification in the United States. An additional instance is the 1991 film “Not Without My Daughter,” which represented an American woman and her daughter trapped in Iran, where their Muslim husband/father abused and mistreated them. The film presented Muslim men as abusive and controlling, perpetuating the stereotype of the oppressive Muslim man and contributing to the Western public’s negative perception of Muslim men.

Similarly, the 2012 film “Zero Dark Thirty” portrayed Muslim men as brutal and violent terrorists while portraying American characters as heroes. Instead of addressing the complex political and social issues that led to the rise of terrorism, the film propagated the notion that Muslims are inherently violent and harmful. Additionally, the depiction of Muslim women in the media has become especially problematic. The 2017 film “The Big Sick,” for instance, described a conservative Muslim family oppressing and forcing a Muslim woman into an arranged marriage. This portrayal ignores Muslim women’s agency and autonomy while reinforcing the stereotype of Muslim women as defenseless captives in need of Western protection.

Muslim women are frequently presented as oppressed and subordinate to men, with their clothing and behavior indicating a lack of freedom and autonomy. This representation ignores Muslim women’s diverse experiences and perspectives while reinforcing the notion that Muslim women must be liberated by the West. The portrayal of Islam in the film has been impolite and paternalistic. The 2008 film “Traitor” portrayed a Muslim man who is recruited by a terrorist organization and becomes a suicide bomber. Rather than emphasizing the diversity and complexity of Muslim beliefs and practices, the film portrays Islam as a religion that promotes violence and terrorism.

The impact of biased and condescending depictions of Muslims and Islam in film media is substantial. These depictions contribute to unfavorable perceptions and opinions about Islam and Muslims, which can lead to prejudice, animosity, and, in extreme cases, violence. Furthermore, portrayals of Muslims and their faith may determine how non-Muslim audiences understand Muslims and their faith, leading to a lack of empathy and comprehension of Muslim experiences and perspectives.

Biased and condescending representations of Muslims and Islam in the media have perpetuated negative stereotypes and contributed to the growth of Islamophobia. These negative portrayals have real-world consequences for Muslim communities, resulting in discrimination, prejudice, and, in extreme cases, violence. To foster greater understanding and empathy between different communities, it is critical to speak out against these inaccurate portrayals and foster nuanced and respectful representations of Muslims and their faith.

Hiba Shaikh Ansari is a student of English Hons. from Jamia Millia Islamia.

Edited by: Moneera Aiman