Today, on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we’re thrilled to bring you the exclusive reveal of the main trailer forBilal: A New Breed of Hero. This gorgeous CG-animated film from co-writers/co-directorsKhurram H. AlaviandAyman Jamaltells the tale of the title character, a boy abducted into slavery in ancient times who managed to hold onto his dreams and fight for his freedom, and the freedom of those around him. I can think of no better message to share in these times, or on this day in particular, and I’m very much looking forward to this film’s unique vision and story coming to American shores and theaters around the world.
Bilal: A New Breed of HerostarsAdewale Akinnuoye-Agbajeas the voice of adult Bilal;Jacob Latimoreas the voice of teenage Bilal;China Anne McClainas Bilal’s teenage sister Ghufaira;Cynthia Kaye McWilliamsas Bilal’s mother, Hamama;Michael Grossas Okba the cowardly slave trader; andIan McShaneas the voice of Umayya, Bilal’s evil master. Look for the film in U.S. theaters on February 2nd.
Check out our exclusive reveal of the official trailer forBilal: A New Breed of Herobelow:
And here’s the film’s official synopsis, followed by the powerful messages this story tells and how ‘Martin Luther King Jr. Day’ is the perfect time to both remember and celebrate them:
1,400 years ago, Bilal, a seven-year-old boy, with a dream of becoming a great warrior, is abducted into slavery with his sister and taken to a land far away from his home and thrown into a world where corruption and injustice rule all. Throughout his life he undergoes many hardships, through which he discovers an inner strength he did not realize he possessed. Through these experiences, Bilal comes to realize that if he is brave enough to raise his voice and choose his own path - everything becomes possible. It is through his courage, that he frees himself and ultimately his community; it is through the power of his voice and faith that his lifelong dream of freedom comes true. Bilal grows into a man who will inspire the world.
Power of One
The story “Bilal: A New Breed of Hero” is inspired by the true events of the African slave Bilal ibn Rabah, a man whose story is similar to that of Martin Luther King Jr., who believed in the unity of mankind and equality of all people. Bilal used his gifted voice to speak out against injustices and took a stand for freedom despite the risks to his own life. Bilal, Martin Luther King Jr., and many others seeking equality throughout history inspire us all to find our inner power and take a stand for what we believe is right. They remind us of “The Power of One” – the belief that one courageous person can make a difference in this world. A reminder that if each and every person embraces their own inner power it can be manifested as a force for good.
Power of Voice. Power of Change. Power of Faith. Power of Freedom.
Bilal: A New Breed of Herostorms into U.S. theaters on February 2nd.
