(RNS) — An animated film made by and for Muslims will hit hundreds of U.S. and Canadian movie theaters this weekend, marking a milestone for Muslim children’s representation on the big screen.
The movie, “Time Hoppers: The Silk Road,” follows four gifted students who travel back in time on a mission to protect historical Muslim scientists from an evil, time-bending alchemist. It marks the first major theatrical release of an animated feature by Muslim creators.
Co-writer and director Flordeliza Dayrit told Religion News Service that the film showcases the rich history of Muslim innovators who have shaped the world but are not often given screen time.
“A lot of times you see Muslims in the media, especially in Hollywood, as bad guys, as villains,” Dayrit said. “With ‘Time Hoppers,’ we want to make sure Muslim kids are the superheroes of the movie.”
Produced by Milo Productions, a Canadian children’s media company, and distributed by Fathom Entertainment, “Time Hoppers” will be shown at over 650 theaters across the two countries starting on Saturday and Sunday (Feb. 7 and 8). Entertainment industry outlet Variety reported 35,000 tickets were sold in pre-sales as of Thursday (Feb. 5).
The film has generated “unprecedented grassroots support,” said Michael Milo, the film’s co-producer.
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With a limited marketing budget, Milo said his team initially worried about how to spread word about the film. To his surprise, interest in the film grew organically through what he called “local champions” — a network of families, influencers and …