Arabic as a Cultural Signifier in Films

This article investigates the circumstance surrounding the use of the Arabic language in western films and analyzes the extent to which this application of the language denotes changes in western views towards Arabs and Muslims. The article’s premise is that the use of Arabic in western films in general—and those from Hollywood in particular—represents a gradual shift from a marginal and negligible role to a significant indicator of sociopolitical realities and cultural meanings. This positive orientation is observable in films made after the tragic events of September 11, 2001.