Watch The Sultan and the Saint

The Sultan and the Saint is a historical documentary film from 2016 that explores the unlikely meeting of Saint Francis of Assisi and Sultan Al-Kamil in the midst of the fifth Crusade in Egypt. The film is directed by Alexander Kronemer and co-written by Michael Wolfe and Alex Kronemer. It stars Zack Beyer as Saint Francis of Assisi, Jeremy Irons as narrator, and Alexander Mherson as Sultan Al-Kamil.

The film tells the story of how Saint Francis of Assisi travels to Egypt in the midst of the Crusades, with the intention of converting the Muslim leader Sultan Al-Kamil to Christianity. However, the Sultan – who is known for his wisdom and piety – instead offers shelter to the Christian friar and the two men engage in a series of dialogues that focus on their shared values of peace, love, and comion.

The core message of The Sultan and the Saint is that religious understanding and dialogue are key to building a future of peace and harmony. This message is delivered through the vivid portrayal of the encounters between Saint Francis and Sultan Al-Kamil, which showcase how two people from seemingly different worlds can find common ground and work towards a higher goal.

One of the strengths of the film is its historical accuracy. The filmmakers have gone to great lengths to research the time period and present an authentic portrayal of the events. For instance, they have consulted with experts in medieval history, interfaith relations, and Islamic studies to ensure that the details of the story are accurate.

The cinematography of the film is stunning. The visuals are a mix of reenactments, animated maps, and drone footage that capture the grandeur of the Egyptian landscape. The filmmakers use light and shadows to convey the mood of the scenes, such as the ominous depiction of the Crusader army on the march and the tranquil setting of the oasis where Saint Francis meets the Sultan.

The narrative of the film is skillfully constructed, weaving together different threads of the story to create a cohesive whole. The filmmakers use voiceovers, interviews, and on-screen text to provide context and explain the historical significance of the events. The pacing of the film is well balanced, with moments of introspection interspersed with action sequences.

The performances in The Sultan and the Saint are excellent. Zack Beyer gives a convincing portrayal of Saint Francis of Assisi, capturing his humility, gentleness, and deep faith. Jeremy Irons’s narration is eloquent and adds a sense of gravitas to the story. Alexander Mherson’s portrayal of the Sultan is nuanced, showcasing his intelligence, kindness, and inner struggle to maintain his faith in the face of the Crusaders’ aggression.

Overall, The Sultan and the Saint is a thought-provoking film that resonates with the current global climate. The film reminds us of the power of dialogue and understanding in a world where differences are often exploited for political gain. It is a testament to the potential for humanity to rise above its divisions and work towards a more peaceful future.