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Television Documentaries and the #IranElection

Recently PBS ran a Frontline documentary from 2002 on Iran. While I applaud the effort to give some necessary background to the situation in Iran, there were some problems. Jordan Robinson wrote a letter offering some critique to the piece. I quote it below with permission: Subject: Rebroadcast of 2002 “A Clash That’s Centuries Old” a disservice to US public Dear Frontline Senior Editorial Team, I just finished watching your 2002 broadcast of “A Clash That’s Centuries Old,” part of your “Terror and Tehran” series. While I appreciate your effort to inform the American public life about life in Iran…

Islam meets reality TV – Guest Voices – The Washington Post

Islam meets reality TV – Guest Voices – The Washington Post. I think the most important aspect of the show is the great diversity of opinion that will be on display. There are questions of clothing, and not just the hijab, which does generate very rich conversations, but just what is appropriate and modest on a daily basis. There are many independent business women on the show, and we are privy to the conversations as to what limits Arab culture imposes compared to religious mandates. One of the most powerful moments, and I think one that will resonate, is how…

Dubai Superheroes: Little Old Grannies Who Wear Veils

From the NYT: “Freej,” which swiftly became one of the most popular shows in the United Arab Emirates when it had its premiere here three years ago, is on a hiatus this Ramadan season, a result of the declining economy and, Mr. Harib says, his exhaustion after three grueling production cycles. In its place a new series of three-minute episodes starring the characters is being shown on local television. Mr. Harib’s animated aspirations took shape a decade ago when he studied at Northeastern University in Boston, where his peers downloaded “South Park” episodes in their dormitories. He recognized that his…