One World Cinema

'Bilal,' is set to be the opening film at this years Cannes Film
Festival 'Animation Day' on May 18, 2016.

'Bilal,' Directed by Khurram H. Alavi, and Co-Directed by Ayman Jamal,
is inspired by the real life story of historical figure, Bilal Ibn
Rabah (580-640 AD), and his struggle for equality and freedom. Bilal's
life teaches humanity, the importance of racial equality, to stand
together as one, without discrimination.

The film begins a thousand years ago,  in an ancient land,  when a
young Bilal and his sister are playing in the desert. Bilal is
inquisitive and asks his mother what type of man his father was. When
she replies that he was 'a great man,' Bilal shares that he wants to
be a great warrior when he grows up. As enemy intruders swiftly invade
their town on horseback, his mom knows danger is imminent. She locks
the young Bilal and his sister in a shed, and instructs Bilal to keep
his sister safe.  Bilal's mother is killed, and as Bilal ages, he
reflects back on his mother's reminders that 'his father was a great
man,  to protect his sister, and to be a warrior you must live a life
with no chains.'

Bilal and his sister grow up being treated as poor slaves by the nasty
Master Safwan, and his father, who is upset that Bilal has embarrassed
him in public. Bilal is reminded that no one is born a slave, that we
are all born as equals, and that he was once free. He is determined to
break the chains of anger and vengeance he has been living, and gets
on a horse and rides through the desert meeting people who will soon
help him become the man he wants to become, spreading the message of
equality, and fight the enemy that gets in his way.

Bilal is taught important messages by his peers. 'He who forgives will
witness glory. Use your strength in your mind, and not a weapon. Build
a home to inspire the hearts of men. His voice will inspire to speak
for justice and equality.'

Once Bilal is awakened and skilled, he has to confront and fight off
his Master and other enemy combatants.

Keep your mind clear, and your heart true! Have faith and stand
strong! May the light prevail! God will always be there for you! Be
the better man, for a man is judged by his actions!

Bilal!