After watching “Reel Bad Arabs ” I finally feel understood. The one thing that stood out to me the most throughout the movie was how raw and real everything that was discussed. Jack Shaheen really went into details and showed various examples of how the film industry is always intentionally trying to dehumanize Arabs. As an Egyptian who grew up in the United States, I finally feel like all the thoughts and feelings I’ve had about the two different lifestyles and how I am viewed from Americans perspective was clearly portrayed throughout the film. Not only do these movies portray Arabs as something that they totally are not, the ending of the movie brought up Christians in Arabic countries. I feel like most Americans forget that countries for example Egypt gave rise to one of the world’s oldest Christian faiths. Yet Arab countries are viewed as mostly Islamic and Muslims. And with that stereotype comes with how Muslims are violent and how often they are demonized. The overall representation of Arabs is completely unfair.
Reel Bad Arabs
- Post author By Marezgirgis
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- 4 Comments on Reel Bad Arabs
I’m so glad to hear this, Marez. It can be a difficult movie to watch but the message is so important. Lots to talk about!
Marez, I thought it was really interesting to read your reflection on this especially since you are Egyptian. I’m glad that you were able to relate to the content in the film and that your felt heard. For me personally the film was extremely eye opening but for you I’m sure it was a lot different. It must have felt good to know that other people are noticing problems and addressing them when it comes to your culture. For me personally, it feels great to have others who share the same thoughts as you especially when those thoughts invoke strong emotions. Overall, well done reflection and super insightful.
Marez, I thought it was really interesting to read your reflection on this especially since you are Egyptian. I’m glad that you were able to relate to the content in the film and that your felt heard. For me personally the film was extremely eye opening but for you I’m sure it was a lot different. It must have felt good to know that other people are noticing problems and addressing them when it comes to your culture. For me personally, it feels great to have others who share the same thoughts as you especially when those thoughts invoke strong emotions. Overall, well done reflection and super insightful..
This is a really thoughtful reflection, Marez. I thought it was really meaningful how you found a personal connection to the film and have you balance two lifestyles as an Egyptian in the United States. You also make a good point when you claim that people forget how Arab countries have given rise to some of the oldest Christian civilizations. I know a lot of people who use the term “Arab” and “Muslim” interchangeably, yet, as you stated, it is important to understand that Arab and Middle Eastern societies are racially and religiously diverse.