Video
Video still
"The Message" emulates the precise editing style of scenes from the 1976 film titled "The Message" by Syrian filmmaker Mustafa Al-Akad, illustrating the event that took place on September 24, 622 AD—a momentous historical event: the completion of Prophet Muhammad's migration from Mecca to Madina. My video introduces a compelling contrast. Western children find themselves immersed in 3D-rendered settings mirroring Madina as depicted in Al-Akad’s film, holding handmade welcoming signs against a chroma screen. These children reenact the actions of individuals from 1399 years ago, eagerly anticipating hope and happiness with the arrival of their savior. However, a stark disruption occurs as a drone enters the scene—an emblem of weaponized surveillance prevalent in modern times, targeting people within their own countries. Tension escalates as the drone advances, eventually coercing the children out of the frame.
One channel video. Duration: 00’02’51 min / 4k Digital / stereo / 16:9. Credits: Dop, special effects & editing: Martin Jäger / Sound design: Sami Rahola & Martin Jäger / Producer: Katarina Holma / Woodpecker Production.
The artwork was funded by AVEK / Promotion For AudioVisual Culture, Helsinki.