About Koran By Heart

Koran by Heart is a 2011 HBO documentary, directed by Greg Barker. It explores the lives of three 10-year-old children who leave their native countries to participate in one of the Islamic world's most famous competitions, a test of memory and recitation known as The International Holy Koran Competition. As 110 kids from countries as diverse as Tajikistan and the Maldives descend on Cairo for the competition, the movie follows the three contestants as they embark on a journey, one that brings challenges and triumphs alike, and venture far from home, often for the very first time.

Making / Production

The documentary was produced by Julie Goldman and directed by Greg Barker. The film was edited by Langdon Page, with cinematography by Frank-Peter Lehmann. The production team wanted to provide an insight into the Islamic culture and the way children are educated in this culture.

Actors

• Nabiollah Saidoff - Himself: Nabiollah is a non-professional actor and a young religious scholar from Tajikistan. He displays remarkable composure and confidence throughout the competition.
• Djamil - Himself: Djamil, a blind contestant from Africa brings an emotional and heartfelt touch to the competition.
• Rifdha Rasheed - Herself: The only female in the lead trio, Rifdha is from the Maldives and undertakes her participation in the competition with equal parts dedication and determination.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The competition featured in the film, The International Holy Koran Competition, is one of the oldest and most prestigious Koran reciting competitions in the world.
• The film doesn't only focus on the competition but shows a slice of the contestants' lives, their backgrounds and the diverse conditions they come from.
• The title, Koran By Heart, points to memorization and recitation, key elements of the competition.

Quotes

• "If it's God's will, who are we to question it." - Rifdha Rasheed
• "My eyes can't see, but my heart sees everything." - Djamil
• "I don't just recite. I understand the meanings and the teachings." - Nabiollah Saidoff

Music, Soundtrack

• The film's backdrop of Islamic culture has been beautifully supported by traditional Arabic music and background score that sets the mood and amplifies the overall experience.