Legacy of Peace

Demonization of Islam as an anti-Western religion has been a cottage industry in some circles since 9/11, but effective Muslim responses have been few, including this documentary produced by the Institute of Arabic and Islamic Studies of Palmdale, CA. Written by the organization's director, Faysal Burhan, Legacy of Peace is, unfortunately, too historically simplistic to come across as anything but propaganda. The four half-hour segments fall into two parts, with the first presenting a biography of Muhammad—based largely on the hagiographic literature about the Prophet and illustrated with artwork—emphasizing his peaceful methods, which extended even to his treatment of those who persecuted him and his followers. The tenets of Muhammad's teachings are also sketched, with particular focus on the prophet's reverent attitude towards Jews and Christians. The second part zeroes in on the cultural impact of Islam, arguing that rationality was the basis of medieval Muslim learning, while also underscoring the numerous Islamic contributions to the world. Many of the points made here have merit but tend to be overstated, as when one featured commentator argues that Islam cannot be at odds with the West because it effectively created Western civilization. Nor does the film address any of the serious issues between the West and Muslims or the divisions that developed within Islam itself, which often lead to hostility and violence. In sum, this is a laudable but disappointing project. Not a necessary purchase. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)