Love Is a Verb

At a time when Islam is perceived by many in the West as a threat, Terry Spencer Hesser's documentary offers a different perspective. She paints an effusive portrait of Fethullah Gülen, a Turkish preacher residing in the U.S., who spearheaded the movement called Hizmet, which asks followers—particularly in the fields of education and medicine—to serve those in need. The film begins with a brief but useful sketch of Anatolian history from Ottoman times up through the transformation of the former empire into the secular state of Turkey—a nation plagued by turmoil into modern times. Providing surprisingly little detailed data about Gülen's earlier life, Love Is a Verb concentrates on the humanitarian activities of Hizmet, visiting charter schools in the United States, clinics in Somalia, and various other locales in order to hear testimonials about the good work being done in response to Gülen's call. Emphasis is placed on the moderate character of Gülen's teaching, which encourages the education of girls, the compatibility between Islam and modern science, the need for interfaith dialogue, and the support of multi-party democracy—positions that have earned him the respect of many political and religious leaders in the West, as evidenced in footage of his meetings with key figures. Hesser adds excerpts from Gülen's talks to followers at his Pennsylvania estate—scenes that underscore the man's modesty and quiet sense of authority—and closes with a section on Hizmet's often oppressive treatment by the present Turkish regime. Featuring crisp narration by Ashley Judd, Love Is a Verb—the title indicates the movement's concentration on an active life of service—is obviously a work of advocacy, but one that is instructive and inspiring. Extras include a 2012 interview with Gülen. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)