Bloody Cartoons 2007
Distributed by Cinema Guild, 115 West 30th Street, Suite 800, New York, NY 10001; 212-685-6242
Produced by STEPS International
Director n/a
DVD, color, 52 min.
Jr. High - Adult
Democracy, Religious Studies, History, Multicultural Studies, Political Science, Political Cartoons
Date Entered: 01/30/2009
Reviewed by Malcolm L. Rigsby, Department of Sociology, Ouachita Baptist University, Arkadelphia, ARSince the 2005 Danish cartoons of the prophet Muhammad and Muslims there has been an increasing interest in whether political cartoons and satyrs go too far in characterizing religious groups. On the one hand, free speech and free press sponsor liberty in expressing views about religious groups. On the other hand certain members of the Muslim world have accused these publications as not only derogatory, but also blasphemous of their religion.
Indignity over “insults” to the Prophet quickly spread throughout Muslim communities in Germany, France, Pakistan, Qatar and Iran. Spurred on by leaders in the Muslim world this translated into riots and vandalism, including destruction of many public buildings.
Editing and photography are excellent. The story line is historical interspersed with current events and interviews. Excellent sound quality and music background effects. This is a quality presentation worthy of consideration. Enjoy this thought provoking documentary that takes the viewer on a journey to Lebanon, Iran, France and Turkey on a quest to balance respect for religious ideologies and freedom of expression. Is democracy equal to “complete freedom”?