INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue X October 2025
and relatable characters. According to Maulidah and Fatoni (2019), the unique appeal of Islamic-themed films
lies in their ability to attract audiences by integrating spiritual values such as brotherhood and compassion.
Raharjo (2018) adds that a positive film must fulfill four essential criteria including it should be religiously
grounded, inspiring, devoid of immoral or pornographic elements, and aligned with Islamic ethical values.
Film, as Spottiswoode (2022) and Kachka (2021) defines, is a creative visual art that combines narrative,
dialogue, and sound to produce moving images for entertainment and reflection. Ahmad (2011) describes film
as a discursive and intellectual creation that mirrors social culture and harmoniously blends ideas, analysis, and
artistic expression into a coherent story. In Islam, da’wah originates from the Arabic word al-da‘wah, meaning
to call or to invite (Mustafa, 1989; Ibn Manzur, 1968). It refers to the act of inviting people toward faith in
Allah SWT and adherence to Islamic teachings (al-Balbaaki, 2007; al-Qaradhawi, 1978). As a communicative
activity, da’wah involves several elements: the preacher (da‘i), the message (maddah), the method (manhaj),
and the medium (wasilah) (Mohd Zain, 2006). In this regard, film represents a sophisticated form of moral
communication capable of shaping thought, behavior, and spiritual awareness. Opir (2018) asserts that film’s
influence depends on adopting a relevant and holistic da’wah approach. Awang (1997) conceptualized this
approach through three key dimensions in creative work aesthetics (beauty), morality (ethics), and the
supremacy of Allah SWT. These dimensions guide filmmakers in conveying messages that inspire goodness,
prevent wrongdoing, and nurture a spiritually conscious society in accordance with Islamic principles.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Film is an efficient and effective medium of communication. It serves as a vehicle to deliver messages that
encompass hardware, software, presentation methods (userware such as lighting, sound, cinematography), and
performance art (underware involving character portrayals) (Ahmad, 2011). Beyond its entertainment value,
film also functions as an educational platform, leveraging its unique qualities and advantages over other media.
While entertaining, educational elements can be subtly and meaningfully incorporated, allowing for the
conveyance of messages and advice to the audience in a heartfelt manner. Films not only depict creatively
crafted representations of societal life but also have the power to influence thoughts, feelings, and ultimately
shape an individual's behavior towards positive actions rather than negative ones (Aini & S. Suyurno, 2016).
This notion is supported by studies conducted by Abd Razzak et al. (2016), Yahaya et al. (2020), and Wan
Hamat et al. (2013). Furthermore, Ahmad (2011) suggests that movies and dramas are highly effective in
triggering awareness and facilitating conversion.
Influence of Movies on Audiences
Movies can influence the audience that watches them. It can stimulate behavior, shape them, and frame the
thinking of the public.
Character Formation
In the context of educational theory, film is categorized as a medium for conveying messages that encompasses
four key components: hardware, software, presentation method (userware), and performance art (underware)
(Ahmad, 2013). The hardware aspect refers to the physical elements featured in the film, such as settings,
buildings, and environments. The software component is the narrative itself, which conveys a clear message.
The presentation method, or userware, includes elements that enhance the storyline and add meaning, such as
lighting, sound effects, cinematography, semiotics, music, and songs. Lastly, performance art, or underware,
involves the portrayal of solid characters that bring the script to life. When all these elements are effectively
integrated and presented systematically, they have the potential to shape an individual's character or behavior.
Studies have been undertaken to explore the significance of character development portrayed in movies within
society. Research conducted by Yahaya et al. (2014) on 127 secondary school students in the Kulai district,
Johor, involving 92 male and 35 female students, sheds light on this subject. This particular study delves into
the impact of aggressive media on student behavior using a survey approach. The results indicate a notable and
moderate influence of aggressive media content on students. Furthermore, the study reveals
various negative behavioral outcomes such as inclinations towards fighting, threatening, bullying, shouting,
cursing, vandalizing, using inappropriate language, and engaging in illicit activities.
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