Kunna Sho'oban (from the Subtitles series)

The basic function of Arabic subtitles in a foreign film is translation. The subtitle works within the context of the film as a narration to the story as well as an explanation of the action that accompanies it. Therefore, the impact of the picture precedes that of the subtitle and creates the framework for it. When removed from the context of the film and re-exported with the image of the film, the function of the subtitle is transformed from confirming meaning to actually producing it. It is re-born as a unique source of content, with no past or alternative function.

Kunna Sho'oban is a still from the movie Malcolm X, when he is performing the Hajj. This still conveys a moment of enlightenment and pure understanding, whereby Malcolm X, from believing that Islam is a religion exclusive to black people and the Nation of Islam is confronted by a multitude of different races, from African, to Oriental to blond blue eyed Aryans and realized that Islam is a religion for everyone and that everyone is equal in brotherhood.