Phenomenological Study of Shariah-Compliant Films as Da’wah Medium

Abstract

The discussion of Shariah compliance in film provides the opportunity for the delivery of the message of da’wah (Islamic evangelism) through filmart. Nevertheless, the term sharia compliance in the film field is a newly discussed matter compared to sharia compliance in the banking system. Therefore, this study aims to analyze film audience’s perception towards the concept of sharia compliance. This study also examined the role of sharia compliance film as the medium of da’wah. It employed the phenomenology design that involved sampling with the aims to obtain study respondents. The 10 samples were UKM undergraduate and postgraduate Muslim students who like watching Malay films. The data were collected via focussed group discussion. This study employed constant comparative analysis in comparing data that convey meaning in answering the questions and objectives of the study. The findings showed that from the audience’s perception regarding sharia compliance, there were two categories of audience, which are negotiated reading and oppositional reading in interpreting meaning. The findings stated the respondents’ perception regarding the concept of sharia compliance that was discussed - ‘’Actions in film, socializing limit...the acting should preserve them but not too stiff...for example the scene where husband and wife sleeping together on a bed should be avoided. Frankly, the absent of such scene does not flaw the film.’’ The findings also found that the respondents agreed with the role of sharia compliance film as the medium of da’wah. It is hoped that this study contributes clarity to filmmakers regarding the concept of sharia compliance that could take center stage in da’wah film in Malaysia