TeachGlobalEd.net

Recommended because of its discussion of the three Abrahamic religions. Using the holy city of Jerusalem as a stage, this presentation explores some of the commonalties and differences of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, three great religions that have their roots in Southwest Asia. Examining the sacred texts of each, the film compares without judgment central issues such as divine revelation, transcendence, profession of faith, the relationship of man to God, the significance of laws and teachings, and beliefs about the reign of God and final judgment. The film incorporates useful historical maps, religious architecture, and many scenes from the city of Jerusalem. This is a fair comparison of beliefs and practices that does not concentrate so much on the history of contact between the religions as on their individual structures and practices. [AGF] Produced by David Nalle for the Islamic Affairs Program of the Middle East Institute. Recommended for high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU, also available through the University of Utah. (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/25/02.

Recommended because of its focus on Palestinians and Israelis using the important coffee culture of the Middle East. Topics and materials: This documentary uses the rituals surrounding the drinking of coffee as a way to examine daily life for Palestinians and Israelis. The “culture of coffee” is shared by both communities and the filmmakers use it as a context in which to compare life in the Arab communities and on Israeli settlements. [ZG] Recommended for high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/25/02.

Recommended because of its information on the American oil industry in Saudi Arabia. Use in conjunction with Cities of Salt. Topics and materials: This promotional video focuses on the development of the American oil industry (and ARAMCO) in Saudi Arabia, beginning in 1933 with the first geological expeditions. Most valuable are early photos of exploration camps, regional topography, and the Arabian peninsula before development. The tape makes for a heroic tale, but as one might expect, fails to place American efforts in the larger context of oil exploration in the Arabian peninsula, Iran and Iraq that began with the British in the 1890s, and was joined by the Dutch, French and Americans in the next century. Briefly addresses the economics of oil and its effects on Saudi Arabia, preferring to concentrate on the good fortune it has brought to the kingdom. The Story of Oil is recommended for a history of oil and related development in the region, and Cities of Salt for a critique of the oil industry and its effects on Saudi Arabia. [AGF] Produced by ARAMCO. Recommended for high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU. Also available to teachers of the Pacific Northwest and upper Midwest States through the University of Washington. (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/25/02.

Recommended because of its children’s songs in Hebrew with characters of the Sesame Street gang. Join host Kippi ben Kippod for an all-request musical trip through Israel. Sing-a-long with your favorite Israeli and Sesame Street songs?in English, Hebrew, and even in “grouch.” Watch Paul Shaffer as he tries to send a musical greeting to his friends in Jerusalem. See blues singer B.B. King teach his guitar to play in Hebrew. And cover your ears when Moishe Oofnik and his American cousin, Oscar the grouch, request a lullaby that could put only a grouch to sleep. PBS. Available through the Middle Eastern Studies Center at the University of Arizona. (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by the Middle Eastern Studies Center at the University of Arizona, 4/29/02.

Recommended because of its look at women in the Middle East. This polished, professional short film investigates the diversity of roles traditional and nontraditional that women choose in contemporary Middle Eastern society, and explores the rewards and repercussions of these choices. She interviews three women: a young, university-educated Muslim Irani continuing her studies at NYU; a former prima ballerina from Egypt teaching at NYU (also a Muslim); and an older Egyptian, Christian woman whose economic status goes undiscussed. The women ponder lifestyle choices and how their decisions were shaped by their views and experiences of women’s roles in society, and by paternal relationships. [CNES] Directed by Colleen Caden, an MA alumna in the Joint Program in Near Eastern Studies and Journalism. Recommended for middle and high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/26/02.

Recommended because of its information on the whirling dervish. Winning an award for the best short documentary film in Europe in 1981, Dances of God captures the ecstasy of the whirling dervish ritual. Filmed on location in Konya (Turkey), the film depicts one of the main groups of whirling dervishes in the country. The first two minutes have several glitches, but overall, they do not detract from viewer involvement. Note: Since the film has no narration, it can be prefaced with discussion of the history and symbolism of the ritual, the importance of the garments worn, etc. [CNES] Directed by Marc Mopti. Recommended for middle and high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/25/02.

Recommended because of its focus on the celebrations of the birth feast. The video leads us through the celebrations of the moulid, or birth feast, of Sidi Abu’l Hajjaj, whom legend says came from Iraq in the 12th century, usurped power from the matriarch of Luxor, and wove a thread around the town to achieve dominion. The moulid occurs at the temple of Luxor, where the divine boats of the gods once sailed in the ancient Egyptian feast of Opet. The film is given depth by constant comparison with the early Egyptian feast, and includes 1925 footage of the moulid. The film progresses between the current and ancient Egyptian practices, such as the use of mast poles, model boats, ritual combat, and the procession of the boats. We view the arrival of crowds from the countryside, chanting in the tomb, traditional stick-dancing, equestrian games, and the pulling of sacred boats around town on the main day of the moulid. Wickett has carefully portrayed the intertwining of ancient and modern so important in Egyptian life, but often missing in Western portrayal of Egypt. [MM] Produced by Elizabeth Wickett, Folklore Dept. of University of Pennsylvania. Recommended for high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/25/02.

Recommended because of its information on Sufism. This Belgian production is a solid introduction of Sufism, a branch of Islam that is less known in the West than the more mainstream Sunni and Shi-i practices. Focuses primarily on Sufism as it is practiced in parts of Pakistan and Macedonia, but also visits India and Turkey (Rumi is not discussed). Abundant footage of zikr traditions, with cogent explanation of saint worship, importance of qawwali music, and attainment of the ecstatic state. Gives context to various orders and traditions, discussing for instance how Sufis’ roles in Ottoman military processions have influenced the kinds of musical rhythms one hears in Macedonian zikrs. Includes performance by famed Pakistani singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. Warning: Includes graphic scenes of tongue, cheek, and body piercing during the ecstatic state that may be unsuitable for younger students. [AGF] Directed by Dirk Dumon. Recommended for middle and high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU. This video is also available to teachers of Central Ohio through the Middle East Studies Center at OSU. For teachers of the Pacific Northwest and Upper Midwest States, the University of Washington will loan this film. The University of Arizona also carries it. (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/25/02.

Recommended because of its information on Islamic contributions to science and technology. Topics and materials: From the middle of the 8th century until the European Renaissance, Arabic was the language of mathematics and science. Islamic science, synthesizing earlier Greek, Indian, and Near Eastern thinking made significant contributions in the fields of astronomy, physics, medicine, and engineering. Although it concentrates on some of these contributions, this film, originally titled “Islamic Knowledge,” is more a look at the relationship between the religion and scientific achievements. Opening with footage and narration of Sufi dervish dancing, the film continues by tracing the relationship of Qur’anic teachings and their practical applications in the development of science. (An example: the declared importance of rain to the world’s fecundity leads us to dams built during the 11th century when no such technology existed in the West.) Also explores the religion-philosophy-science relationship in fields of astronomy, astrology, medicine and physics. [AGF] Films for the Humanities, World of Islam series. Recommended for high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU. This video is also available to teachers of Central Ohio through the Middle East Studies Center at OSU. (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/26/02.

Recommended because of its story of Lawrence of Arabia. Winner of seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture of 1962, this epic commercial film recreates the exploits of famed British officer, T.E. Lawrence, who, assigned to Arabia during World War I, unites the warring Arab factions into a guerrilla front that endures both brilliant victories and eventual defeat against the Ottoman Empire. With Peter O’Toole as Lawrence, and starring Alec Guinness and Anthony Quinn among a host of others. Directed by David Lean Produced by Sam Spiegel . Recommended for high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/26/02.

Recommended because of its indigenous view of resistance to Mussolini’s occupation of Libya. This historical feature about Umm Mukhtar and the 1930 resistance to Mussolini’s occupation of Libya is one of the best films for a view from the indigenous side of the colonial project, although the English version uses Western actors to portray many Arab roles. Includes Anthony Quinn as Mukhtar, Rod Steiger as Mussolini and Irene Papas as Mabrouka. [CNES] Directed and produced by Moustapha Akkad. Part I: 91 minutes; Part II: 68 minutes Recommended for high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU. This video is also available for loan through the University of Arizona. (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/26/02.

Recommended because of its fables of Arabia. An adaptation of the traditional fables from India and Arabia designed to teach morals and princely behavior to rulers through stories enacted by animals. The animated film narrated by Omar Sharif is based on a 14th Century Mamluk manuscript and its delightful illustrations. [CNES] Smithsonian Institution. Recommended for middle and high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/26/02.

Recommended because of its Turkish folktale. Teeny-Tiny and the Witch-Woman is a Turkish folktale based on a theme very similar to that of Hansel and Gretel. The story concerns three brothers who are told not to venture into the woods in order to avoid the wrath of the wicked witch who lives there. One day, the boys take a chance against the wishes of the youngest brother, Teeny-Tiny, and find the home of the witch. The older brothers, Big-One and In-the-Middle, willingly go inside. Teeny-Tiny follows reluctantly behind. Once inside, the witch offers them a meal and a bed for the night. Teeny-Tiny suspects that this witch is indeed the witch they were warned about. That night, Teeny-Tiny resists sleep. When the witch calls to the boys to see if they are asleep, Teeny-Tiny tells the witch that he needs one thing after another before he will be able to sleep. Eventually, Teeny-Tiny asks for water from the well. He sees the witch leave her magic soap, needle and knife behind before she goes out to collect the water. Teeny-Tiny wakes his brothers, warns them about the evil witch, and the three escape with Teeny-Tiny snatching the witch?s three magical objects on the way. The end of the story finds Teeny-Tiny using the magical objects to keep the pursuing witch away from himself and his brothers. Teeny-Tiny and his brothers return safely home, never again to venture into the forest which is the home of the evil witch. Available through the Middle Eastern Studies Center at the University of Arizona. (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by the Middle Eastern Studies Center at the University of Arizona, 4/29/02.

Recommended because of its information on conflicts over water. This video is a competent presentation highlighting the volatile Middle East conflict over the natural resource more valuable than oil: water. The film examines dilemmas within countries as well as between them: Turkey’s newest dam system can control waters from the Tigris and Euphrates rivers flowing to Syria and Iraq, which lack adequate storage facilities for the reservoir-filling process; Jordan is a “fresh-water pauper” already surviving on aqueous overdraft, though a Syrian-Jordanian project for water storage threatens Israel; and Israel’s interest in the Golan Heights is as much related to control of the headwaters of the Jordan River as to fear of military strikes. With excellent maps, careful statistics, blunt interviews with politicians, commentaries from concerned citizens and good photographic coverage of the various areas. [EFB] Directed by Paul Woolrich and produced by Marshall Healey for Channel 4/BBC. Recommended for high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU, also available through the University of Arizona and the University of Washington. (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/26/02.

Recommended because of its treatment of contemporary social problems. Director Mohsen Makhmalbaf’s early work is distinguished by its visual sophistication and treatment of contemporary social problems. Here, as in The Peddler, he embroiders his regular themes of man’s exploitation of man and the inequities between rich and poor. The cyclist of the title is Nassim, an Afghan refugee in need of money to pay his wife’s medical expenses. With work difficult to come by, a sleazy promoter suggests he undertake a bicycle marathon. Touting him as the Afghani superman, the huckster wagers that Nassim will circle a small area on the outskirts of town, day and night, for a week. Gamblers, bookies, and food vendors gather to watch the desperate cyclist from the sidelines, cynically turning his suffering to their own profit. Available through the Middle Eastern Studies Center at the University of Arizona, also available through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU and the University of Washington. (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by the Middle Eastern Studies Center at the University of Arizona, 4/29/02.

Recommended because of its Turkish tale of modern everyday life. Set in modern Turkey, The Horse is a beautiful and moving portrayal of a father and son coming to grips with external hardships and their own human frailties as they attempt to earn enough money to send the boy to school. Ozgenturk’s goals for the film were simple: “I wanted to interweave problems of everyday life so closely into the story of this film that they seem to be no longer common at all.” The director’s portrayal of the characters’ problems against the realistic background of poverty and desperation proved so unsettling that the Turkish government sent him to prison for making The Horse. Directed by Ali Ozgenturk. Recommended for high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/25/02.

Recommended because of its information on Islamic cities. Topics and materials: Astute and able narration marks this exploration of cities established under Islam and enduring as primarily Islamic centers. The film visits cities founded during several periods of Islamic rule by different ruling dynasties: Kairouan, Tunisia built as a frontier town during the first generation of Islam; Istanbul, Turkey established in the 15th century under the Ottomans; and so on, including cities in India, Morocco, Yemen, Egypt, Iran and Syria. Covers the variety of architectural styles and histories while explaining the unifying features of Islamic cities: the mosque and related buildings (especially schools), and a center’s often inward-turning configurations. Brief and insightful treatment given to role of women in society as defined by the Qur’an and as adapted to 20th century lives. Only a few stumbles, such as labeling pre-Islamic Arabs “warrior tribes in search of wealth.” World of Islam series. Recommended for high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU. Also available through the University of Arizona. (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/26/02.

Recommended because of its history of oil. This series on Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Oman is hosted by journalist Jo Franklin-Trout using on-site interviews. Her goal is to demythologize this area for Americans, offering insight into contemporary social life as well as politics and plans for the future. But there is confusion, at times, about exactly where she is! [UNC] Produced by PBS/Pacific. Part I: Kings and Pirates: The historical background of “commerce, colonialism and culture” of the Gulf States — from Portuguese conquest through British hegemony –leads to discussion of the discovery of oil and the impact of the petrodollars on the modernization process. [UNC] Part II: The Petrodollar Coast: Franklin-Trout visits Oman, a nation described as “medieval” in 1970, but now miraculously modernized. Interviews in the United Arab Emirates address the role of women and issues concerning foreign workers. [UNC] Part III: A Sea of Conflict: This video documents the volatility of the smaller Arab Gulf States, their vulnerability as international pawns, and their sensitivity to local Arab religious and political pressures. [UNC]. PBS. Recommended for high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/26/02.

Recommended because with its catchy songs and colorful graphics “Alif is for Asad” teaches and reinforces the correct identification and pronunciation of the letters in the Arabic alphabet. Video includes 6 parts: Zoo Trip teaches students the 28 letters of the Arabic alphabet and the vocabulary of 28 animals; Animal Words elaborates on the animal words of Zoo Trip; Funny Formations teaches the different shapes of the Arabic alphabet; Letters in Space reinforces the letter shapes learned in Funny Formations; ‘Phabulous’ Phonics concentrates on the proper pronunciation of each Arabic letter; and Arabic Achievement introduces students to Arabic Grammar. Excellent for all age groups learning Arabic or being introduced to Middle East or Muslim cultures. 30 minutes. Reviewed by Astrolabe Pictures and Jennifer Nichols, 02/2003.

Recommended because it is a triumphant prize winner at many prestigious film festivals. This uplifting, crowd-pleasing story of family and love was also nominated for an Academy Award as Best Foreign Language Film! When Ali loses his sister Zahra’s school shoes, this young pair dream up a plan to stay out of trouble: they’ll share his shoes and keep it a secret from their parents! But if they’re going to successfully cover their tracks, Ali and Zahra must carefully watch their step on what rapidly turns into a funny and heartwarming adventure. Directed by Hassan Hassandoust, Produced by The Institute for the Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults. 83 minutes. Available through Arab Film Distribution. Reviewed by Buena Vista Home Entertainment and Jennifer Nichols, 02/2003

Recommended because ,with mesmerizing imagery, humor and warmth, “Tales from Arab Detroit” blends voices, poetry, song and dance into everyday stories of stories of cultural conflict and resilience within the largest Arab in North America. When an Arab American community center brings an Egyptian poet to perform an 1000-year-old epic, sparks fly. The result is a familiar American tale: parents trying to pass on cherished traditions and language, while their children are at home in a world of McDonald’s and MTV. Excellent for grades 6 to 12. Directed by Joan Mandell, Olive Branch Productions. Reviewed by Olive Branch Productions & Jennifer Nichols, 02/2003.

Recommended because “The Wonder of Israel” poster study-guide and video offers educators and students a unique opportunity to explore the past, present and future of a nation that is at once a land steeped in history and an innovative, modern-day presence–the State of Israel. The poster-sized study guide, which features an illustrated map on one side and informative text, discussion questions, student activities and resources on the other, can be downloaded from this site. Produced by the Embassy of Israel and Kidsnet. For a free copy of the “Wonder of Israel” study guide and video, write to the Embassy of Israel, Office of Public Affairs, 3514 International Drive, NW, Washington, DC 20008 or e-mail the Embassy at ask@israelemb.org. Reviewed by Kidsnet.

Recommended because it provides a great introduction to three of the Arab Gulf States: Kuwait, United Arab Emirates and Oman. By visiting these countries we see three very different ways in which the Gulf countries have encountered and adapted to modernity. The tape begins with a trip to Kuwait City and deals with its transformation since the first Gulf War. Next the guide visits the UAE and shows the extreme drive to modernize through advanced infrastructural investment. Lastly, we see Oman and the balance between the modern facade of Muscat to the traditional coastal town of Salalah and the Empty Quarter. Start by providing an introduction to the historical and contemporary geography of the Middle East. The vast wealth in the smaller Gulf countries is certainly the exception rather than the rule in the region. Before examining places like Dubai, put its development in its geographic context.

Recommended because Hunting Bin Laden gives an excellent look at the state-of-the-art on Bin Laden before 9/11 and In Search of Bin Laden updates the original documentary in light of the aftermath of 9/11. The video was done as a joint partnership between Frontline and The New York Times and is hosted by Bill Moyers. Hunting Osama bin Laden provides an excellent background of Bin Laden, from his birth and upbringing, his migration to Afghanistan to fight the Soviets and how this experience helped to solidify his ideolology, rare footage of interviews, and the embassy bombings in Africa. In Search of Bin Laden includes all of this, plus a new section with Bill Moyers on the USS Cole and 9/11. The video is great because it attempts to explain the formation of Osama bin Ladens motives, rather than only looking at specific terrorist attacks as many other 9/11 documentaries do. Start by starting in any section you want. The documentary is well organized. If there is a certain time-period you are interested in, it would be easy to only show that section.

Recommended because this is an excellent Nova broadcast on archeological finds on the city of Ubar in the Empty Quarter, located in the current nation of Oman. Ubar was a famous trading center in the Southern Arabian Desert which lasted for thousand of years and was mentioned in the Quran as being a decadent city that was destroyed by God. Based on imagery and remote sensing data from the Space Shuttle, archeologists use GPS technology to locate the forgotten city. The documentary follows their journey, missteps and eventual success. It is a great look at one of the foremost archeological discoveries of the century. The documentary website includes updates, interviews, links and an artifact gallery.

Recommended because according to the Columbus Library Website, this video, “Looks at the delicate alliance between the United States and Saudi Arabia, considering the vast difference in the culture of the two countries, and in light of the September 11th terrorist attack on the United States.” It is a great introduction to historical and contemporary developments in the US-Saudi relationship and to the social and economic constraints in Saudi Arabia. Start by visiting the website, reading about the film, and looking at the resources and links. Be aware of that this video would really only be appropriate for advanced high-school students.

Recommended because of its focus on 17th century Isfahan. Topics and materials: This video examines the rule and accomplishments of Shah Abbas, who returned Persia to power in the 17th century with a focus on Isfahan as an imperial city, and how the bazaar, Royal Mosque and other architecture fit into daily life. Also examines artistic creations — carpets, metalwork, pottery and tilework — created during this period in a distinctive style that has come to characterize Persian design. Includes commentary by Oleg Grabar and John Gurney. Narrated by David Frost. A part of the Crossroads of Civilization Series. Recommended for middle and high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/25/02.

Recommended because of its information on the Middle East after WWI. Topics and materials: Perhaps the most useful installment of this 14-part series, this video focuses on one of the major historical sources of Middle East tension: the redrawing of the region’s map following the World War I. The 19th century colonial encroachment in North Africa and the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire become intelligible to all, supported by adroit use of film clips and photographs, as well as superior graphics. Explanation of the millet system and of religious as distinguished from territorial identity under the Ottoman Empire clarify the struggle to redefine identity in national terms within the new states emerging from Mandate status into independence. A few, small errors: Kurdistan bridges four rather than three countries, with northern Syria overlooked; nor does Kurdistan extend all the way to the Arabian Gulf. For the most part, though, New Frontiers is a brilliant film carrying out the promise of offering “understanding beyond the headlines.” [EFB] Directed by Boiteau & Stansfield for TV Ontario and Mideast Productions. Narrated by Richard Bulliet. Recommended for high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/26/02.

Recommended because of its information on Women during the sturggle for Algerian independence. Topics and materials: This video deals with two distinct periods of national history for Algerian women: the empowering war for independence and everything after, which has meant a struggle to regain personal independence in the face of attempts to isolate and limit women’s lives. Through a series of compelling interviews interspersed with wartime footage, Algerian women recount their experiences on the front lines of the eight-year struggle against France ending with independence in 1962. Educated, illiterate, urban, and rural women discuss their roles in commando units, providing refuge and aid, and taking over men’s jobs in their absence. The remainder of the video moves through the 1980s and up to 1992, when the multi-party system that opened political participation for women has failed, the FIS is taking violent action against “disobedient” women, and President Boudiaf, who supported women’s rights, has just been murdered. A penetrating look at the relationship between women’s and the country’s recent history. [AGF] Produced by Parminder Vir. Recommended for high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/26/02.

Recommended because of its information on the Persian Gulf War. Independent Television News (NYU) Topics and materials: This video serves as a record of the episode in the Persian Gulf. It examines the context in which the conflict occurred, the development of “Desert Shield”, and the escalation towards full scale military war. With the lines of battle drawn, the two protagonists emerged as Norman Schwarzkopf and Saddam Hussein. A profile of each is included in the program, helping to bring into focus the pressures and dilemmas each faced. Produced by Independent Television News. Recommended for high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/25/02.

Recommended because Recommended for information on Egypt in the1970’s and 1980’s, and for information on the assassination of its head of state, Sadat. Topics and materials: This news program is a perceptive examination of Sadat’s politics, economic policies and persona in Egypt up until his assassination in 1981, expertly compared with the hero-like portrayal of Sadat in the Western, specifically American press. Carefully traces the selective impact of Sadat’s economic and political decisions, which created a wealthy entrepreneurial class replacing the old land-holding rich, but brought little change for the average person. Focuses also on reactions to alignment with the West and to peace accords with Israel; and on alienation of other Arab countries. Includes intelligent, informative interviews with Egyptian journalists, writers, former ministers and advisers to Sadat. Overall, an excellent introduction to conditions in Egypt in the ’70s and ’80s, with eerie echoes for today’s political situation. [AGF] Directed by Ofra Bikel for WBGH TV (Boston). Recommended for high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Ofra Bikel. WBGH TV (NYU) Recommended for information on Egypt in the1970’s and 1980’s, and for information on the assassination of its head of state, Sadat. Topics and materials: This news program is a perceptive examination of Sadat’s politics, economic policies and persona in Egypt up until his assassination in 1981, expertly compared with the hero-like portrayal of Sadat in the Western, specifically American press. Carefully traces the selective impact of Sadat’s economic and political decisions, which created a wealthy entrepreneurial class replacing the old land-holding rich, but brought little change for the average person. Focuses also on reactions to alignment with the West and to peace accords with Israel; and on alienation of other Arab countries. Includes intelligent, informative interviews with Egyptian journalists, writers, former ministers and advisers to Sadat. Overall, an excellent introduction to conditions in Egypt in the ’70s and ’80s, with eerie echoes for today’s political situation. [AGF] Directed by Ofra Bikel for WBGH TV (Boston). Recommended for high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/26/02. Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/26/02.

Recommended because of its information on how WWI effected the Middle East. Topics and materials: This documentary begins with the period just after World War I, when Britain and France divided the Middle East between themselves. The film discusses how the oil resources of Iraq and Kuwait have shaped their history, and traces U.S. involvement in the region, beginning with the Iran-Iraq war and ending with the U.S. led offensive against Iraq that began on January 17th, 1991. The video features interviews with two experts on the Middle East with sharply different views: C. Max Kortepeter of New York University and Peter A. Rodman of Johns Hopkins University. It includes archival footage from ABC News and Independent Television, as well as video footage shot in Iraqi cities during and after the allied bombing. [CNES] Directed and produced by Frank Beck for American School Publishers. Recommended for high school students. Available to teachers in the tri-state area through the Hagop Kevorkian Center at NYU. This video is also available to teachers of Central Ohio through the Middle East Studies Center at OSU. (See Overview-Centers for more information.) Reviewed by Hagop Kevorkian Center, NYU 4/26/02.