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The Fight for the Holy Land
by Mohamed Zeineldine (mohamedz87@gmail.com)

Rated: PG-13   Genre: War Movies   User Review: *1/2
A screenplay about the reconquest of the Holy Land from the Crusades. Not all quotes actually took place, yet many quotes and events did.


This screenplay is copyrighted to its author. All rights reserved. This screenplay may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of the author.



THE FIGHT FOR THE HOLY LAND

FADE IN:

INT. HOME IN DAMASCUS - DAY
                                                            
A FATHER takes his SON to Jerusalem.
                                                            
                       FATHER
Hiya ya bunay. (Let us go, my
son.)
                                                            
                       SON
Eela ain, ya aby? (To where, oh
father?)
                                                            
                       FATHER
Eela al-Quds. (To Jerusalem.)
                                                            
                       SON
Li tijara? (For trade?)
                                                            
                       FATHER
La, li ziyarat bait Allah. (To
visit the Mosque.)
                                                            
 
INT. AQSA MOSQUE - DAY
                                                            
The FATHER and his SON pray at the Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.
                                                            
 
INT. CASTLE OF NICAEA, ANATOLIA - DAY
                                                            
It is dawn. The young 17-year old Turkish king, KILIJ
ARSLAN, looks over out the window in a room in his castle in
Nicaea. Sunlight shines through the window. MESSENGER 1
comes rushing through the door calling the king.
                                                            
                       M 1 (outside)
      (as he enters
       through door)
King Kilij! King Kilij!
                                                            
                       KILIJ
      (turning around,
       facing the door)
As-Salaamu-Alaikum. Please, sit
down.
                                                            

2.

                       M 1
      (panting)
Wa-Alaikum As-Salaam. I bring you
unfortunate news.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
Concerning?
                                                            
                       M 1
An approaching army. Christian
knights come from the West.
                                                            
KILIJ paces back and forth in thought.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
They come to attack my kingdom?
                                                            
                       M 1
Yes, my Lord.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
For what purpose?
                                                            
                       M 1
It has been said that they march
for the Holy City of Jerusalem.
                                                            
KILIJ is suprised.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
Jerusalem! That is a long march
from here. They go by land?!
                                                            
MESSENGER 1 looks to the floor.
                                                            
                       M 1
Yes, my Lord. They pass through
the Byzantine stronghold of
Constantinople first.
                                                            
KILIJ walks to the window and looks through it.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
Our defenses, do we have a
sufficient number of men capable
of bearing arms?
                                                            
                       M 1
I shall find out.
                                                            
KILIJ turns around to face the MESSENGER.
                                                            

3.

                       KILIJ
And inform the streets, towns,
villages, and tribes. Send them a
message. Tell them I command them
to prepare as quickly as possible.
                                                            
                       M 1
As you command, my Lord.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
As-Salaamu-Alaikum
                                                            
MESSENGER 1 leaves the room.
                                                            
                       M 1
Wa-Alaikum As-Salaam.
                                                            
MESSENGER 2 comes through the room, panting.
                                                            
                       M 2
My Lord Kilij! Be prepared my
Lord!
                                                            
                       KILIJ
For what?
                                                            
                       M 2
A Christian army has reached
Constantinople.
                                                            
KILIJ begins to pace the room in thought.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
The messenger before you informed
me of them. He told me they were
still marching to Constantinople.
Did they reach it by force?
                                                            
                       M 2
No, my Lord. The Byzantines
permitted them passage.
                                                            
KILIJ stops in the middle of the room and looks to the floor
in thought.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
I have ordered the messenger who
came before you to spread the
news. Keep your eyes on the enemy
and keep me informed of their
actions.
                                                            

4.

                       M 2
At your service, my Lord.
                                                            
Exit M 2.
                                                            
                       KILIJ (to himself)
They come from the West, from
afar? Would they really be aiming
for Jerusalem? What a march that
shall be for them! They march for
my lands first? Why had they not
went by sea? They are not marching
for a certain Holy City! They
march for land! My land as well as
those lands of my brethren!
                                                            
 
EXT. STREETS OF NICAEA - DAY
                                                            
It is noon time. KILIJ walks through the streets, rallying
men to arms.
                                                            
                       KILIJ (shouting)
My people! Come, peace be with you
all! A danger is coming. I come
not for myself, but for you!
Prepare my brethren! Pull your
sleeves! Bear arms! If there were
a day in which I needed you most,
that day would be now! You prepare
to defend your homes, your
mothers, your infants, your
elders, and the lands of Allah!
Open your doors!
                                                            
MEN fill the streets, bearing arms.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
      (cont'd)
Spill the streets of Nicaea with
strong men! Prepare for a
struggle! Peace be with you!
                                                            
 
INT. ROOM IN THE CASTLE OF NICAEA - NIGHT
                                                            
It is nightime. KILIJ is sitting at his desk reading. A
MESSENGER approaches the door from outside. A GUARD stops
him.
                                                            

5.

                       GUARD
      (from outside)
For what purpose to you wish to
enter?
                                                            
                       MSNGR
      (from outside)
To inform the King of an
approaching army.
                                                            
                       GUARD
What army?
                                                            
                       MSNGR
An approaching Christian army
heading for this town. It is of
immediate importance that I meet
the young King.
                                                            
                       GUARD
Enter you may.
                                                            
The MESSENGER enters the room, followed by the GUARD. KILIJ
turns to face the two.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
      (staring at the
       gaurd)
I believe this man has come to
speak with me, not you.
                                                            
                       GUARD
I shall leave, then, my Lord
                                                            
The GUARD leaves the room. KILIJ faces the MESSENGER and
stands up.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
And for what reason do you come?
Have you any news of the Crusades?
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Oh Kilij, the Christian soldiers
camp a days march from you.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
With how many men?
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Tens of thousands. Lead by a man
named Peter.
                                                            

6.

                       KILIJ
Our trained cavalry? What is the
cavalry's status?
                                                            
                       MSNGR
They await your orders.They camp
at the gates of this city, ready
to act once you command them to.
                                                            
KILIJ walks towards the window but stops midway.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
Then they remain patient till I
order otherwise.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
And the enemy? If the attack
before you send word to our men to
act?
                                                            
KILIJ turns around to face the MESSENGER.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
Counsel me with patience, not
hastiness.
      (he looks down in
       thought)
These are hard pressing times. To
rush to a decision may cause great
loss for our people and it would
be me, not you, who shall be held
accountable in front of them when
God judges between man. Tell the
cavalry to remain in front of the
gates of Nicaea.Tell them not to
move unless I tell them to.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
As you command.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
As-Salaamu-Alaikum
                                                            
The MESSENGER heads for the door.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Wa-Alaikum As-Salaam.
                                                            
The MESSENGER leaves. KILIJ raises his hands in prayer.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
Oh my Lord, I defend a land in
which Your Name is praised and You
            (MORE)

7.

                       KILIJ (cont'd)
are worshipped by your slaves. I
defend those who prostrate when
they hear Your Name. Support me in
these times of need. Your enemies
wish to attack Jerusalem, from
where you raised Your Messenger,
Prophet, and Slave Muhammad to the
Heavens that miraculous night.
Support me with soldiers we do not
see, and enter my people and
myself through the gates of Your
Gardens with Your Mercy.
                                                            
 
EXT. IN FRONT OF THE GATES OF NICAEA - DAY
                                                            
It's dawn. KILIJ is checking on his MEN. A MESSENGER comes
running and panting.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Oh King Kilij! The enemy has taken
the fortress of Xerigordon!
                                                            
KILIJ raises his hands.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
My Lord, you are most kind.
                                                            
                       MSNGR (confused)
My Lord Kilij, a castle of your's
has been taken by your enemy and
you thank God for that?
                                                            
                       KILIJ (laughing)
God is very kind. You forget where
the water source for that land is.
Think and you shall understand
why.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Well, the water is a walk from the
fortress.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
Yes, yet it is not a short walk,
is it?
                                                            
                       MSNGR
It is quite far.
                                                            

8.

                       KILIJ
Yes. And if an army is sieged in
that city, what will its state be
like within weeks.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
The besieged would be extremely
desperate.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
And for that reason I go to lay
siege on that fortress.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
May God grant you victory.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
Ameen. Salaamu-Alaikum.
                                                            
KILIJ looks to his MEN.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
      (cont'd)
Let us go!
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Wa-Alaikum As-Salaam
                                                            
 
EXT. TOP OF THE FORTRESS OF XERIGORDON - DAY
                                                            
It is noon time. Two CRUSADERS keeps watch from a tower over
the horizon. Many knights have been drunk from celebrating
their percieved victory.
                                                            
                       CRSDER 1
Strange how easy it was to capture
this stronghold.
                                                            
                       CRUSDR 2
I am surprised as well. Could this
suggest that the enemy is weak?
                                                            
                       CRSDER 1
I would not suspect so. It may
easily be a trap. I haven't seen
any resources around here.
                                                            
                       CRUSDR 2 (laughing)
Those nomadic Turks are not that
wise, my friend.
                                                            

9.

Silence. After some time, KILIJ and his MEN appear over the
horizon. CRUSADER 1 points toward the approaching Turkish
army.
                                                            
                       CRSDER 1
Look over there!
                                                            
                       CRUSDR 2
I see. I see. They would be mad if
they were to attempt to attack us.
                                                            
                       CRSDER 1
A seige is all they need. An
assault is not necessary to take
over this fort.
                                                            
                       CRUSDR 2 (laughing)
A siege would take them a long
time
                                                            
                       CRSDER 1
Possibly.
      (pause)
Wait. Where is the water supply
for this place?
                                                            
                       CRUSDR 2
Probably nearby. Why?
                                                            
                       CRSDER 1 (worried)
Any water within the walls? Any
wells.
                                                            
                       CRUSDR 2 (worried)
I haven't seen any.
                                                            
KILIJ and his MEN are still far in distance.
                                                            
                       CRUSDR 2
Let me see if there is any well
outside on the other side of the
walls.
                                                            
                       CRSDER 1
Go. Quickly.
                                                            
CRUSADER 2 leaves to see where the nearest source of water
is. Silence.
                                                            
CRUSADER 2 returns.
                                                            
                       CRSDER 1
Any water?
                                                            

10.

                       CRUSDR 2
None.
      (Pause)
They say the closest source is now
behind the approaching army.
                                                            
 
EXT. IN FRONT OF THE FORTRESS OF XERIGORDON - DAY
                                                            
KILIJ marches forward towards Xerigordon.The FORTRESS
appears over the horizon.
                                                            
                       TRK CVLRY 1
      (pointing to the
       fortress)
Xerigordon, my Lord.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
Al-Hamdu-Lillah
                                                            
                       TRK CVLRY 2
      (with sword raised)
Allahu Akbar!
                                                            
                       TRKSH CAVALRY
      (with swords
       raised)
Allahu-Akbar
                                                            
                       KILIJ
      (Now charging at
       full gallop,
       sword raised)
Allahu Akbar!
                                                            
The TURKS charge towards Xerigordon.
                                                            
 
EXT. THE GATE OF XERIGORDON - DAY
                                                            
CRUSADERS stand in front of the GATE of Xerigordon.
                                                            
                       CRSDER 1
If they lay siege, we die. I'd
much rather die in battle than of
thirst.
                                                            
                       CRUSDR 2
You suggest that we attack them?
                                                            
                       CRSDER 1
I see no better option.
                                                            

11.

CRUSADER 3 points towards the oncoming TURKISH CAVALRY.
                                                            
                       CRSDER 3
They charge!
                                                            
                       CRSDER 1
Charge back!
                                                            
                       CRUSDR 2
Attack!
                                                            
The small CRUSADING GROUP that was at the GATES gallops
towards the approaching TURKS. They are crushed and the
TURKS begin their siege.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
Alhamdu-Lillah
                                                            
                       TRK CVLRY 1
Alhamdu-Lillah
                                                            
                       TRK CVLRY 2
My Lord, Kilij. What do we do now?
Shall we attempt an assault?
                                                            
                       KILIJ
We lay siege and wait for the
enemy to surrender.
                                                            
 
INT. TENT AT THE GATES OF XERIGORDON - NIGHT
                                                            
Night time has fallen. KING KILIJ and his MEN are camped
outside. A MESSENGER from the Crusaders approaches their
camp. A TURKISH GUARD enters KILIJ's tent.
                                                            
                       GUARD
My Lord. A messenger from the
enemy wishes to speak to you.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
Bring him in.
                                                            
                       GUARD
Yes my Lord.
                                                            
The GUARD leaves the tent and calls the MESSENGER.
                                                            
                       GUARD
Come in.
                                                            
The MESSENGER enters the tent.
                                                            

12.

                       M 1
King Kilij, my master Reynald
wishes to surrender.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
I shall send him a message with a
messenger of mine. If he accepts
what I shall propose to him, then
your knights are safe.
                                                            
The CHRISTIAN MESSENGER exits the tent. A TURKISH MESSENGER
enters it.
                                                            
Enter messenger 2.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
As-Salaamu-Alaikum
                                                            
                       M 2
Wa-Alaikum As-Salaam.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
A messenger from the enemy has
informed me that they wish to
surrender.However, I find it my
duty before God to give their
leader Islam.
                                                            
                       M 2
You want me to explain the True
Faith to him?
                                                            
                       KILIJ
Yes. Tell him he will be free if
he accepts it.
                                                            
                       M 2
I shall, my Lord
                                                            
MESSENGER 2 leaves the tent. HE returns a few moments later.
                                                            
                       M 2 (happy)
My Lord! My Lord! The Crusader
leader has accepted Islam and has
declared that any one who is an
enmy to you is an enemy to him! He
declared war on the Crusades who
still fight against us.
                                                            
                       KILIJ
Ma-Sha-Allah. Al-Shukr Lillah.
Leave me to pray a prayer of
thanks to my Creator.
                                                            

13.

KILIJ prays.
                                                            
 
INT. CASTLE OF ANTIOCH - DAY
                                                            
YAGHI-SIYAN is at a balcony. HIS MESSENGER comes in.
                                                            
                       YAGHI
Tell the Muslims to dig a trench
in preparation for the arrival of
the Franks.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Yes, my lord.
                                                            
The MESSENGER leaves.
                                                            
YAGHI is watching from his balcony. HE sees a crowd of MEN
leaving the city walls to dig the trench.
                                                            
(following day)
                                                            
YAGHI is at his balcony again. A MESSENGER enters.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
My lord, would you command the
Muslims to dig the trench today?
                                                            
                       YAGHI
No. The Christian men shall,
today.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Why only the Christians, my lord?
                                                            
                       YAGHI
I fear that they may join sides
with the Crusaders.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
I shall command them to dig the
trench, then, my lord
                                                            
The MESSENGER leaves.HE returns a few moments later.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
My lord, a Christian man wishes to
speak with you.
                                                            
                       YAGHI
Bring him in.
                                                            
The MESSENGER leaves. A CHRISTIAN enters.
                                                            

14.

                       CHRISTIAN
My lord Yaghi?
                                                            
                       YAGHI
Yes. My friend, Antioch is your
city, but you must leave it in my
hands until I have resolved our
problem with the Franks.
                                                            
                       CHRISTIAN
But my lord, who will protect our
women and children?
                                                            
                       YAGHI
I will take care of them for you.
Not a hair of your wives or
sisters shall be touched and if
they are, then upon me is the sin
of breaking a promise and I shall
owe you what you ask for.
                                                            
 
INT. CASTLE OF ANTIOCH - NIGHT
                                                            
YAGHI is writing a letter to the king of Damascus, AMIR
DUQAQ.
                                                            
                       YAGHI
      (writing)
In the Name of Allah
To the Amir of Damascus, Duqaq.
As you have heard, the enemies of
God are marching toward my city of
Antioch. My garisson may not be of
match to these Crusaders. In these
times of turmoil and struggle, it
is best for us both that weleave
aside our disputes and focus on
the war with our common enemy. I
plead to you to support me with
men and weapons so that our
enemies may never contemplate of
waging war with Allah's servants
again.
                                                            
 
EXT. TOWER OF DAVID, JERUSALEM - DAY
                                                            
A MUSLIM SOLDIER is keeping watch over the horizon. FRANKISH
CRUSADERS appear over the horizon.
                                                            

15.

                       MUSLIM SOLDIER
      (yelling)
They have come! Embrace
yourselves! Men, prepare for the
fight! Protect this holy city!
Women and children! Flee to your
homes! May God protect you.
                                                            
 
EXT. IN FRONT OF THE GATES OF JERUSALEM - DAY
                                                            
GENERAL IFTIKHAR is standing in front of the gates of
Jerusalem.
                                                            
                       IFTIKHAR
Are our defenses ready?
                                                            
                       SRVANT
Yes, my lord.
                                                            
                       IFTIKHAR
Tell the knights to attack the
Crusaders once they see the
slightest movement forward from
the enemy.
                                                            
                       SRVANT
I shall my lord. And the archers?
                                                            
                       IFTIKHAR
They are to fire when the enemy
comes close to them and if the
enemy reaches the gates.
                                                            
A GUARD on the tower calls out. The CRUSADERS begin to move
forward. MUSLIM KNIGHTS charge forward.The battle begins.
The CRUSADERS lose the battle.
                                                            
 
EXT. GATES OF JERUSALEM - NIGHT
                                                            
IFTIKHAR and a number of INHABITANTS surrendered Jerusalem.
Many were killed. IFTIKHAR and a flood of REFUGEES leave the
gates of the city.Many are weeping.
                                                            
                       IFTIKHAR
      (with his hands
       raised to the
       Heavens, weeping)
Oh Allah! I have defended this
city as much as I was able to. I
surrendered it because the blood
of your slaves are valuable and I
            (MORE)

16.

                       IFTIKHAR (cont'd)
had no chance to beat the
worshippers of the cross. Oh
Allah! Free this city from their
hands!
                                                            
 
INT. DIWAN OF THE CALIPH AL-MUSTAZHIR-BILLAH IN BAGH - DAY
                                                            
SCHOLARS are reading the Qur'an.
                                                            
                       GURD DIWAN (outside)
Oh Shaykh! Wait, Shaykh!
                                                            
AL-HARAWI, the qadi of Damascus, storms into the diwan,
followed by REFUGEES from Jerusalem. ALL sit around HIM in a
circle. HE remains standing.
                                                            
                       SCHOLARS (whispering)
It's the qadi of Damascus.
                                                            
Al-Harawi stands in the middle of the Diwan. Everyone sits
around him.
                                                            
                       HARAWI
How dare you sleep and rest in the
shade of such complacent safety?
How do you lead such lives? Why
your lives seem as frivolous as
garden flowers. How do you enjoy
yourselves while your brothers in
Syria have no places to rest save
the bellies of the vultures and
the saddles of camels? Have your
ears become deaf upon the news of
these atrocities? Shall God
Almighty accept this of those He
promises Heaven? Blood has been
spilled, brothers, and you rest
here like the whole world is safe
from danger! Oh valorous Arabs!
What has become of your valor that
you now resign yourselves to
insult? Oh honorable Persians! How
do you accept such dishonor?
                                                            
THOSE around HIM are in tears.
                                                            
                       HARAWI
      (cont'd)
You cry in shame now. Man’s
meanest weapon is the shedding of
tears when rapiers stir the coals
of war. I am your guest today,
            (MORE)

17.

                       HARAWI (cont'd)
brothers, and a guest’s request
must not be refused while he is in
dire need. I have come from
Damascus walking these long weeks
of summer through the barren
deserts and the rays of the hot
sun that divides my home from
your city to request your support
so that those who came with me may
see their homes again. Rise, oh
servants of God, and prepare to
fight back for your lands. You
march, my brothers, for a struggle
for God. Jerusalem has been lost
and I ask you all today, who shall
be the great reconquerer of it?
May God grant whoever he may be
victory.
                                                            
AL-HARAWI begins to walk out but is suddenly stopped by a
SERVANT OF THE CALIPH.
                                                            
                       SERVANT/CALIPH
      (standing in front
       of al-Harawi)
Oh Shaykh, oh Shaykh. The Caliph’s
permission must be...
                                                            
AL-HARAWI stares at the SERVANT.
                                                            
                       HARAWI
If it was your mother?
                                                            
The SERVANT looks to the floor.
                                                            
                       SERVANT/CALIPH
but..
                                                            
                       HARAWI
It is your dignity that you either
fight for or leave to be spat on,
not that of the Caliph. Do you
fight for your dignity?
                                                            
The SERVANT tries to look up more, HE manages only to look
at the QADI's chin.
                                                            
                       SERVANT/CALIPH
He is still our Amir and we must
obey him.
                                                            
AL-HARAWI is angered, turns away from the SERVANT, and heads
for the DOOR.
                                                            

18.

                       HARAWI
And what have the Amirs of the
Muslims been doing? Resting and
eating like cattle and sheep? Are
you of such people? When will God
raise brave men amongst these
despicable rulers?
                                                            
 
INT. JERUSALEM, PALESTINE - CANDLE-LIT ROOM. - NIGHT
                                                            
BAHA AD-DIN is writing at his DESK.
                                                            
                       BAHA
      (writing)
In the Name of God, the Most
Gracious, the Most Merciful

. . . When I observed the last
days of our Lord the Sultan
al-Malik al-Nasir, the Uniter of
Islam. . . the standard bearer of
justice and fairness, Salah
al-Dunya wa’l-Din, Sultan of Islam
and the Muslims, deliverer of
Jerusalem and servant of the Two
Noble Sanctuaries, Abu al-Muzaffar
Yusuf ibn Ayyub ibn Shadi...
                                                            
                       MUZIN
      (from mosque
       outside)
Allahu-Akbar Allahu-Akbar.
Allahu-Akbar Allahu-Akbar.
Ash-hadu An La-Ilaah Illah Allah
Ash-hadu An La-Ilaah Illah Allah
Ash-hadu An-Muhammadan Rasul Allah
Ash-hadu An-Muhammadan Rasul Allah
Hay Ala As-Salaa
Hay Ala As-Salaa
Hay Ala Al-Falaah
Hay Ala Al-Falaah
Allahu-Akbar
Allahu-Akbar
La-Ilaah Illah Allah
                                                            
BAHA drops the QUILL and leaves for prayer.
                                                            
 
EXT. STREETS OF TIKRIT NEAR THE CASTLE - DAY
                                                            
SALADIN is born.
                                                            

19.

                       SALDIN (infant)
      (from room in
       castle)
crying
                                                            
 
INT. MOSQUE IN DAMASCUS - DAY
                                                            
SALADIN is praying. HIS UNCLE, ASAD AD-DIN comes to see HIM.
A GUARD stops ASAD AD-DIN at the door.
                                                            
                       GUARD (outside)
My Lord Asad-ad-Din?
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN (outside)
Yes. As-Salaamu-Alaikum.
                                                            
                       GUARD
Wa-Alaikum As-Salaam. You come for
your nephew, my Lord?
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
Yes.
                                                            
                       GUARD
He is praying at the moment.
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
I shall wait for him inside.
                                                            
                       GUARD
Tafadal
                                                            
ASAD AD-DIN enters the MOSQUE. SALADIN is finishing HIS
prayer.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
      (finishing his
       prayer)
As-Salaamu-Alaikum wa-Rahmat
As-Salaamu-Alaikum wa-Rahmat
Allah. Allah.
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
Wa-Alaikum as-Salaam Wa
Rahmat-Allahee wa Barakatuhu. Is
my nephew in good health?
                                                            
SALADIN motions to HIS UNCLE to sit down.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Yes, my uncle. Please, sit.
                                                            

20.

ASAD AD-DIN sits down on the carpetted floor.
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
And how is your training?
                                                            
                       SALDIN
My lord, the Sultan Nur ad-Din
says he is pleased. He continues
to raise me in ranks. I Thanks
God.
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
Good. Al-Hamdu-Lillah. Your skills
shall be proven soon, Insha-Allah.
The Sultan has asked me to defeat
a rebellion in Egypt. I come to
ask for your assistance.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
You ask me to leave my home,
Syria?
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
We fight for God, my nephew. Come
and God will reward you.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
I shall. When do we march?
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
Three days from now.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
After Friday prayer?
                                                            
ASAD AD-DIN gets up.
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
Yes. I leave now to prepare my
men. As-Salaamu-Alaikum.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Wa-Alaikum As-Salaam
                                                            
ASAD AD-DIN leaves the mosque. SALADIN raises his hands.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
My Lord, I leave my home for your
sake. Grant me victory and return
me to my home in good health, or
grant me martyrdom in your cause
and enter me to Heaven.
                                                            
 

21.

EXT. OUTSIDE A MOSQUE IN DAMASCUS - DAY
                                                            
ASAD AD-DIN and SALADIN have finished their prayer.
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
My nephew, this is your first
expedition. We fight for God first
and then the Caliph.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Your men. Are they prepared for
battle?
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
Yes
                                                            
                       SALDIN
When do we begin?
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
We march from Syria soon. We go
south towards the desert sands of
Arabia and then through the Sinai.
The desert heat beats hard on the
sands, so the travel shall be
difficult, yet we must avoid the
Crusaders if we want to bring the
Caliph the news of our victory.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Very well.
                                                            
 
EXT. EGYPT ALONG THE NILE - DAY
                                                            
SALADIN, ASAD-Ad-DIN, and their MENare marching towards
Cairo. SALADIN and ASAD AD-DIN lead the army.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
How much longer before the battle
begins?
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
They say we are two days march
from Cairo. We attack after dawn
prayer if they do not surrender.
Send word to Nur al-Din. Tell him
to pray for our victory.
                                                            
SALADIN calls for his SERVANT.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
My servant.
                                                            

22.

SALADIN's SERVANT comes.
                                                            
                       SRVANT
Labaik ya mawlaya (translation: At
your service, my master)
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Inform my Lord Nur al-Din that we
have arrived at Egypt.
                                                            
                       SRVANT
Bi-Nasr Allah (translation: May
God grant you victory.)
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Ameen (translation: Amen.)
                                                            
 
EXT. AT THE GATES OF CAIRO - DAY
                                                            
SALADIN, ASAD AD-DIN, and the SOLDIERS finish praying.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
      (after finishing
       prayer)
Shall we send them a messenger?
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
Yes.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
      (Calling)
Is there any man among us who
shall inform the rebels of words
we wish to convey?
                                                            
A MESSENGER comes to SALADIN.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Yes, my Lord
                                                            

23.

                       SALDIN
Tell their leader, Dirgham, that
we are camped in front of thei
gates as they see, with enough men
to take over the city ten times
should they recover it again and
again. Ask them to surrender so
that no Muslim shall be killed.
Tell them that if they do not,
then we shall attack and it shall
only be a matter of time before we
begin, for we are already
prepared.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
As you command.
                                                            
The MESSENGER leaves to the gates of Cairo.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
What do you expect of Dirgham’s
response?
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
Be patient and we shall know.
                                                            
The MESSENGER returns moments later.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Peace be with you.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
And with you be peace. What did
their leader say?
                                                            
                       MSNGR
He asks you to withdraw and states
that since this is an internal
issue, then only those on these
lands should be involved and if
any Muslim from outside Egypt
kills a man of theirs, then may
God forgive him.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Inform him that since support had
been asked of us, that we are
obliged to support the Caliph and
the Amir of Egypt. Tell him that
if he does not surrender, then
upon him is the sin of not
accepting peace with a fellow
Muslim, and may God forgive him.
                                                            

24.

The MESSENGER goes back to Cairo and returns moments later.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
He has rejected your proposal, my
lord. He states that he shall
fight to the death if he has to.
                                                            
SALADIN turns to HIS UNCLE.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
My uncle?
                                                            
ASAD AD-DIN faces the gates of Cairo and mounts his HORSE.
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
We attack.
                                                            
ASAD AD-DIN draws out his SWORD and raises it.
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
NOW!
                                                            
The battle begins.
                                                            
 
EXT. WITHIN CAIRO AFTER THE BATTLE - DAY
                                                            
SALADIN and HIS UNCLE won the battle. SALADIN requests to
leave for Damascus.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Al-Hamdu-Lillah. God has granted
us victory, my uncle, yet I see a
need to return to my home.
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
I shall return with you. I must
thank you for your assistance.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Why, my uncle, it was my
obligation to support you.
                                                            
                       ASAD/DIN
It was not.I asked you for a
favor, not an obligation. You were
kind and accepted my request.
                                                            
ASAD AD-DIN looks northeast in the direction of Damascus and
mounts his HORSE.
                                                            

25.

                       SALDIN
      (cont'd)
Let us go together to Damascus.
                                                            
 
EXT. STREETS OF CAIRO IN FRONT OF THE CASTLE - DAY
                                                            
A MESSENGER comes running and panting.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
      (running and
       panting)
My Lord, Yusuf. My Lord Yusuf!
                                                            
SALADIN comes out from a door.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
As-Salaamu Alaikum. Please, calm
yourself. What brings you here?
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Wa-Alaikum As-Salaam. Your uncle,
my lord.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
He sends you?
                                                            
                       MSNGR
No.
      (pause)
May God bestow His Mercy on
Asad-ad-Din's soul.
                                                            
SALADIN bends his head facing the floor and covers his face.
He then motions the MESSENGER to enter the CASTLE. He
follows the MESSENGER inside.
                                                            
 
INT. CASTLE OF CAIRO - NIGHT
                                                            
SALADIN is standing, looking and studying a map on his desk.
A MESSENGER approaches the door but is stopped by a GUARD.
                                                            
                       GUARD
      (from outside)
As-Salaamu Alaikum
                                                            
                       MSNGR
      (from outside)
Wa-Alaikum As-Salaam. Mawlaya
Yusuf? (translation: My lord
Yusuf?)
                                                            

26.

                       GUARD
Na'm. Tafadal (translation: Yes.
Enter.)
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Shukran (translation: Thank you)
                                                            
The MESSENGER enters the room. SALADIN faces the the
MESSENGER.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
My lord Yusuf. The Sultan Nur
ad-Din sends you his condolences
and appoints you Vizir of Egypt.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
For what reason?
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Why, my lord, you are the man in
Egypt he trusts the most. You were
trained under his supervision if
you remember, my lord.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Yes, I remember.
                                                            
SALADIN pauses and looks to the window.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Divide the wealth of my palace
among the inhabitants of Egypt.
Tell them that prosperity and
stability has come.
                                                            
 
INT. CASTLE OF CAIRO - NIGHT
                                                            
Saladin looks through the window. A knock is heard at the
door.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
      (turning around)
Tafadal.
                                                            
Enter messenger.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
My lord, the Sultan has died.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Who has taken the thrown?
                                                            

27.

                       MSNGR
His son, who is extremely young in
age.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
What do you advise?
                                                            
                       MSNGR
The Muslims are in need of a
uniter. Who shall it be if not
you?
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Then send a message to every
corner of every street in every
village, town, or city. Jerusalem
shall be retaken.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
      (leaving the room)
Bi-Nasr Illah
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Insha-Allah.
                                                            
 
EXT. STREETS OF CAIRO - NIGHT
                                                            
A SERVANT of SALADIN is in Cairo rallying men to arms.
                                                            
                       SRVANT
      (shouting)
Oh men of Egypt! Come out and
prepare! We are coming, oh
Jerusalem. You shall be liberated.
Come, oh soldiers of God. Let us
march, my brothers. The Sultan
shall reconquer Jerusalem.
                                                            
MEN come out from the doors, bearing arms.
                                                            
 
EXT. STREETS OF DAMASCUS - DAY
                                                            
A SERVANT of SALADIN is in Damascus rallying men to arms.
                                                            
                       SRVANT
      (shouting)
My people! We are marching to
Jerusalem! Come with us. Come, oh
believers in God. Join us in
bringing back Jerusalem, the
holy!. Bring with you your horses,
            (MORE)

28.

                       SRVANT (cont'd)
your camels, your swords, your
spears, and your arrows. Come,
join us and a struggle for God!
Let us march, oh men of Damascus.
                                                            
MEN spill the streets from their doors.
                                                            
 
EXT. STREETS OF BAGHDAD - NIGHT
                                                            
A SERVANT of SALADIN is in Baghdad rallying men to arms.
                                                            
                       SRVANT
      (shouting)
From Iraq, we come to you,
Jerusalem, to free your chained
arms from the Crusaders. Join us,
my brothers. Let us leave Baghdad
for the Holy City of Jerusalem.
Come, come! Let us free the Holy
Land!
                                                            
MEN step out from their doors.
                                                            
 
EXT. MECCA - DAY
                                                            
A SERVANT of SALADIN is in Mecca rallying men to arms.
                                                            
                       SRVANT
      (shouting)
Oh dwellers of the Prophet's
homeland! Come for God's sake. Let
us free Jerusalem. Come and fight
against the Crusaders who expelled
you from the Holy Land!
                                                            
MEN enter from their homes.
                                                            
 
EXT. STREETS OF CAIRO - DAY
                                                            
SALADIN is walking through the streets of Cairo observing
the people. A MESSENGER comes to him running.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
      (running)
My Lord, Yusuf! My Lord Yusuf!
                                                            
                       SALDIN
As-Salaamu-Alaikum
                                                            

29.

                       MSNGR
Wa-Alaikum As-Salaam. The Franks
have attacked a Muslim caravan, my
lord, breaking their treaty with
us.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Who lead this piracy?
                                                            
                       MSNGR
A man by the name of Reynald, the
Crusader lord of Kerak. When a
captive reminded him of the
treaty, he replied by saying,
"Tell your Muhammad to free you."
                                                            
SALADIN is enraged by the words he heard.
                                                            
                       SALDIN (angered)
How many have we gathered from our
lands?
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Over twelve thousand, my lord.
Kurds, Turks, and Arabs. They have
been waiting for the reconquest of
the Holy Land.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Bring them before the walls of
Kerak.
                                                            
 
EXT. HILLS OF HATTIN - DAY
                                                            
SALADIN and his MEN stand atop the HILLS OF HITTIN. His
SERVANT points to the VALLEY below.
                                                            
                       SRVANT
The valley of Hittin, my lord.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Who leads them?
                                                            
                       SRVANT
Three men. The king of Jerusalem,
King Guy. Count Raymond. And
Balian of Ibelin.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Bring all the troops before me.
                                                            
The SERVANT leaves. SOLDIERS gather around SALADIN.
                                                            

30.

                       SALDIN
The oppurtunity now before us may
well never arise again! In my
view, the Muslim army must
confront all the disbelievers in
an organized battle, we must throw
ourselves resolutely into the
jihad before our troops disperse.
                                                            
The SERVANT spots the CRUSADERS approaching.
                                                            
                       SRVANT
The Crusaders approach!
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Everyone to their positions. Set
the brushwood on fire.
                                                            
                       SRVANT
As you command.
                                                            
The SERVANT goes to set the BRUSHWOOD on the other side of
the valley on fire.
                                                            
The SERVANT returns.
                                                            
                       SRVANT
We are fully prepared, my lord.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Send word to Gokbori to start the
attack from the other side.
                                                            
The SERVANT leaves to inform GOKBORI of SALADIN's orders.
GOKBORI's MEN can bee seen charging against the CRUSADERS.
The CRUSADERS counter-charge.
                                                            
A MESSENGER comes to SALADIN.
                                                            
                       SRVANT
Taqiu-Din asks you what he should
do.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Tell him to block them from
retreating to Jerusalem.
                                                            
The SERVANT goes to inform TAQIU-DIN of SALADIN's orders.
                                                            
SALADIN mounts his horse, raises his sword, and charges. His
MEN follow him.
                                                            

31.

                       SALDIN
Allahu-Akbar!
                                                            
                       TROOPS
Allahu-Akbar!
                                                            
The battle begins. SALADIN is victorious. Some CRUSADERS
managed to flee to Jerusalem.
                                                            
 
INT. CAMP NEAR THE ROAD TO JERUSALEM - DAY
                                                            
SALADIN is resting in his tent. A SERVANT approaches him and
wakes him up.
                                                            
                       SRVANT
My lord, Saladin.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
What is it?
                                                            
                       SRVANT
A Christian woman came to ask you
of something.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Bring her in. With any knights?
                                                            
                       SRVANT
No, my lord. She comes alone.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Bring her in at once.
                                                            
The SERVANT leaves the tent. SALADIN gets up and dresses up.
A CHRISTIAN WOMAN enters the tent, followed by the SERVANT.
                                                            
                       SRVANT
This woman has come out from the
Frankish lines and asked to be
brought to you, so we have done
so.
                                                            
                       CHRISTIAN
      (weeping)
Saladin?
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Yes. What is the matter? For what
reason do you come?
                                                            

32.

                       CHRISTIAN
Muslim thieves entered my tent
yesterday and stole my daughter. I
spent all night until morning
pleading for help. I was told,
"Their prince is a merciful man.
We shall send you out to him to
ask him for your daughter." So
they sent me to you.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
      (weeping)
My servant, go quickly and find
her daughter and bring me whoever
was responsible.
                                                            
                       SRVANT
I shall, my lord.
                                                            
The SERVANT leaves the tent.
                                                            
The SERVANT returns moments later with the CHILD.
                                                            
                       SRVANT
My lord, here is the child. She
was about to be sold. The theive
was not there, he had sold it to
the merchant.We repayed the
merchant and he gave us the child.
                                                            
The LADY weeps. The GIRL is then handed to her and she is
escorted back to her camp.
                                                            
SALADIN raises his hands.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Oh Allah, I have done this
merciful act only to please you
and to abide by your Prophet's
words when he said, "He who does
not show mercy, no mercy from
Allah will be shown to him."
Forgive my sins and grant me an
abode in Heaven.
                                                            
 
EXT. THE GATES OF JERUSALEM - DAY
                                                            
SALADIN looks towards the gates of Jerusalem.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Go and ask them to surrender the
city. Tell them that whoever
            (MORE)

33.

                       SALDIN (cont'd)
wishes to leave the city may leave
it and take his property with him.
Their churches will be kept safe
and respected. Any Christian who
wishes to visit it may visit it
without being harmed.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
I shall my lord.
                                                            
The MESSENGER leaves. He returns moments later.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
They have rejected your kind
proposal, my lord.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
I have offered them a generous
offer and they reject it! I swear
and I promise myself that I shall
take this city by force! The siege
begins...
      (pause)
...now!
                                                            
A MAN shouts orders. The ARTILLERY begins firing.
                                                            
Another MESSENGER comes.
                                                            
                       M 2
My lord, Saladin. A Christian lord
named Balian wishes to fetch his
wife. He had fought you at Hittin
and managed to escape to Tyre. He
says he will return from the city
when he does fetch his wife and
promises not to bear arms. I would
not place my trust in the enemies,
my lord.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
He may get his wife.
                                                            
                       M 2
But my lord...
                                                            
                       SALDIN
I said he may get his wife. Inform
him of my decision. Leave.
                                                            
                       M 2
As-Salaamu-Alaikum
                                                            

34.

                       SALDIN
Wa-Alaikum As-Salaam
                                                            
MESSENGER 2 leaves.
                                                            
The ARTILLERY stops by nightfall.
                                                            
 
EXT. GATES OF JERUSALEM - NIGHT
                                                            
A CHRISTIAN MESSENGER comes to SALADIN from the city.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Saladin!
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Yes, for what reason do you come?
                                                            
                       MSNGR
My lord Balian asks you if he may
stay and help his men defend the
city. Many have pressured him and
threatened him. He asks for your
permission since he had promised
before to leave the city when he
gets his wife.
                                                            
                       SRVANT
      (whispering to
       Saladin)
Had not that Arab messenger told
you that you should not trust
Balian?
                                                            
                       SALDIN
      (whispering to his
       servant)
The man has requested my
permission. If he was not
truthful, he would not have even
sent me a messenger.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
      (to the messenger)
He may help your men.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
My lord thanks you.
                                                            
The MESSENGER leaves.
                                                            

35.

                       SRVANT
My lord! How could you have done
that! You gave permission for an
enemy general to fight you? What
has happened to you?
                                                            
                       SALDIN
The man had promised he would
leave once he fetches his wife. He
had the decency to send a
messenger to me to ask if he may
stay instead. Should I not, then,
have the decency to accept his
request? Maybe they will remember
this act of mine and treat our men
with a similar act from their
side.
                                                            
The MESSENGER returns.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Saladin, my lord Balian thanks you
for your act. He has been
extremely busy with the
preparations for the defence and
his wife is left alone. He
requests that she be given leave
to go to Tyre.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
      (looking at his
       servant)
Send her an escort.
      (looking back at
       the messenger)
She shall be able to go to Tyre in
peace.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
You are the most generous and kind
man I have seen.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
You may go back into Jerusalem.
                                                            
The MESSENGER leaves to Jerusalem.
                                                            
 
EXT. GATES OF JERUSALEM - DAY
                                                            
Over a week later, BALIAN requests to see SALADIN.
                                                            

36.

                       MSNGR
Saladin, my lord Balian wishes to
speak to you.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Bring him.
      (to his army)
Halt the bombardment!
                                                            
The MESSENGER leaves.
                                                            
A MAN shouts orders. The ARTILLERY stops adn BALIAN comes
out from the gate.
                                                            
                       BALIAN
I come to surrender Jerusalem
under the condition that my men
and I are set free and given a
safe passage out of the city.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
After you rejected my generous
offer in the beginning? I have
sworn by God that I shall take
this city by force when you
rejected my proposal. You now want
me to break that oath?
                                                            
                       BALIAN
Oh, Sultan, be aware thst this
city holds a mass of people so
great that God alone knows their
number. They now hesitate to
continue the fight because they
hope that you will spare their
lives as you have spared so many
others, because they love life and
hate death. But if we see that
death is inevitable, then, by God,
we will kill our own women and
children and burn all that we
possess. We will not leave you a
single dinar of booty, not a
single dirham, not a single man or
woman to lead into captivity. Then
we shall destroy the sacred rock,
al-Aqsa mosque, and many other
sites; we will kill the five
thousand Muslim prisoners we now
hold, and will exterminate the
mounts and all the beasts. In the
end, we will come outside the
city, and we will fight against
            (MORE)

37.

                       BALIAN (cont'd)
you as one fights for one's life.
Not one of us will die without
having killed several of you!
                                                            
                       SALDIN
      (whispering to his
       servant)
I do not wish to break my oath if
it is a sin. Yet before me is a
hard decision. The lives of the
people are sacred, and so are the
holy sites. If I keep my oath,
upon me will be the sin of
allowing the death of innocent
people and the destruction of
buildings in which God is
worshipped. If I break my oath,
then upon me is the sin only of
breaking it. What do you think
should be done?
                                                            
                       SRVANT
      (whispering to
       Saladin)
My lord, how can you break an oath
before God?
                                                            
                       SALDIN
      (whispering to his
       servant)
How would you like it if it was
you who was their prisoner now?
                                                            
                       SRVANT
      (whispering to
       Saladin)
At least ask for something in
return for their release from
Jerusalem.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
      (to Balian)
For every one of your men, you
shall pay ten dinar. As for your
women, five dinars so that it
would be easier for you to have
them free. As for the children,
one dinar shall suffice for their
freedom.
                                                            
                       BALIAN
You are very kind even to your
enemies, Saladin.
                                                            

38.

                       SALDIN
It is for God that I do so. I
request no thanks from you. You
may leave in peace.
                                                            
                       BALIAN
      (as he mounts his
       horse)
You shall be remembered by my
people so long as I live.
                                                            
BALIAN leaves.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
      (to his servant)
Bring my men before me.
                                                            
The SERVANT leaves. The MUSLIM ARMY stands before SALADIN.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
My men, God has blessed us today.
Jerusalem has been liberated.
                                                            
                       TROOPS
ALLAHU-AKBAR!
                                                            
                       SALDIN
I have made a promise to the enemy
that they may leave safely. Do not
harass their men, women, children,
and their elderly. Should any of
you do so, he shall be punished.
Their churches are to be kept
safe. We shall restore al-Aqsa
mosque as a mosque, as well as the
Dome of the Rock. The enemy is
permitted to make pilgrimage to
this city safely.
      (raising his hands
       to the Heavens)
Oh Allah, I thank you for the
blessings and mercy you have
bestowed upon me. Protect this
city after I die, oh Allah.
                                                            
ADIL, SALADIN's brother, comes to SALADIN.
                                                            
                       ADIL
My brother.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Yes, Adil.
                                                            

39.

                       ADIL
I wish to release a thousand
Frankish prisoners without
payment.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
I shall release them, for you.
                                                            
A MESSENGER comes.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Saladin, the patriarch of
Jerusalem has heard of your
generosity when you freed a
thousand prisoners. He thanks you
and requests that seven hundred
more be freed. My lord Balian also
thanks you and asks for the
release of an extra five hundred.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Tell them both that all Christian
inhabitants of Jerusalem are
released without any payment. I
shall send gifts to their widows
and orphans.
                                                            
The MESSENGER becomes so happy tears come out of his eyes.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
What is the matter?
                                                            
                       MSNGR
My sister is a widow and is very
sick. You have been extremely kind
to my family by freeing them
without ransom.
                                                            
                       SALDIN
I shall send your sister my
physicians.
      (pulling the reins
       if a horse)
Take this with you. Give it to
your sister.
                                                            
The MESSENGER mounts the horse.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
You are the most kind of men I
have met and the kindest man in
power that has ever lived.
                                                            

40.

                       SALDIN
Peace be with you.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
And with you be peace.
                                                            
The MESSENGER is about to leave until a question hits him.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
Why have leaders before you act
against the wishes of their
people?
                                                            
                       SALDIN
My friend, you have asked an
excellent question. Many rulers
act based on their interests, not
on the interests of their people.
                                                            
                       MSNGR
And why does it seem that you act
based on your people's wishes?
                                                            
                       SALDIN
No, I act based upon my interests,
      (pause)
that are the same as those of my
people.
                                                            
The MESSENGER leaves, waving his hand. SALADIN waves back,
goes into his tent, and prays.IMAD comes to SALADIN as he
finishes his prayer.
                                                            
                       IMAD
My lord! How can you let the
patriarch of Jerusalem do such a
thing?!
                                                            
                       SALDIN
Do what?
                                                            
                       IMAD
This patriarch is carrying off
riches worth at least two hundred
thousand dinars! We gave them
permission to their personal
property with them, but not the
treasures of the churches and
convents! You must not let them do
it!
                                                            

41.

                       SALDIN
We must apply the letter of the
accords we have signed, so that no
one will be able to accuse the
believers of having violated their
treaties. On the contrary,
Christians everywhere will
remember the kindness we have
bestowed upon them. Now go send a
servant to escort the patriarch
safely to Tyre. And tell Muhi
al-DIn ibn al-Zaki, the qadi of
Damascus, to lead the Friday
prayer, for I have heard that his
predeccessor, al-Harawi, had
begged for the help of Muslims
before to free Jerusalem the year
it fell.
                                                            
 
INT. AL-AQSA MOSQUE - DAY
                                                            
MUHI AD-DIN, the qadi of Damascus, gives the Friday sermon
in the Aqsa mosque.
                                                            
                       MUHI AD-DIN
Glory to God who has bestowed
this victory upon Islam and who
has returned this city to the fold
after a century of perdition!
Honour to the army, which God has
chosen to complete the reconquest!
And may salvation be upon you,
Saladin Yusuf ibn Ayyub, you who
have restored the spurned dignity
of this nation!
                                                            
 
INT. A ROOM IN CAIRO, EGYPT - DAY
                                                            
QALAWUN sits with AMIRS.
                                                            
                       QALWUN
      (old and feeble)
I bring you here today to express
my desire to end the Crusader’s
dreams once and for all. For over
200 years they have inhabited
homes that were once those of our
brothers. The day has come to end
their stay.
                                                            

42.

                       AMIR
I agree with you, Qalawun, yet how
may you fight when you are old in
age and feeble in body?
                                                            
                       QALWUN
If God wills I die before a
battle, then it is His will and it
comes to pass. Yet if He wills
that despite my weaknesses I fight
and fulfill my desire, then it is
His will and it comes to pass. I
swear to God that as long as I
live and am capable of bearing a
weapon or my fist, I shall not
rest till the last Crusader knight
leaves Palestine.
                                                            
 
INT. A TENT A LONG THE NILE. - NIGHT
                                                            
QALAWUN has become ill and is nearing his death. He summons
his AMIRS and his son, KHALIL, to his side.
                                                            
                       QALWUN
Bring me my son.
                                                            
The SERVANT leaves. A few moments laterm KHALIL and the
AMIRS enter the tent. KHALIL lowers to one knee next to his
FATHER.
                                                            
                       KHALIL
Yes, my father.
                                                            
                       QALWUN
My son, it is now your duty to
cleanse the Holy Land from God’s
enemies. When I die, make your
intentions pure only to serve God
and those He loves. You must not
fight for my honor nor for me, for
it shall benefit me nothing when I
meet my Lord when He judges
between man. These Amirs are my
witness when I do meet my Creator.
Do not betray me when I am not
capable of defending myself no
longer. God is my witness for my
words. Write those words down.
                                                            
KHALIL writes.
                                                            

43.

                       KHALIL
Here, my father.
                                                            
                       QALWUN
Bring me a quill.
      (Khalil hands him
       the quill.
       Qalawun signs it,
       hands shaking.)
Remember, my son, nothing will
serve you after death. Only what
good you have done shall. Ash-hadu
An La-Ilaah Illah Allah. Wa
-Ash-hadu Anna Muhammadan Rasool
Allah.
                                                            
QALAWUN closes his eyes.
                                                            
                       KHALIL
Father!
                                                            
QALAWUN breathes his last breath.
                                                            
 
INT. CANDLE-LIT ROOM WHERE BAHA AL-DIN WAS-JERUSALEM - DAY
                                                            
CHRONICLER ABU AL-FIDA is writing.
                                                            
                       ABU AL-FIDA (writing)
With these conquests, all the
lands of the coast were fully
returned to the Muslims, a result
undreamed of. Thus were the
Franks, who had once nearly
conquered Damascus, Egypt, and
many other lands, expelled from
all of Syria and the coastal
zones. God grant that they never
set foot there again!
                                                            
 
EXT. A FIELD AT TEL BASHIR - DAY
                                                            


FADE OUT.


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From Robert Date 6/13/2011 **1/2
I agree with Christin. Good effort but needs a lot of work. You may have something here if you just work it out fully. I would try to bring it in at about 90 pages. Just because you have a POV that is not popular in the North American market right now does not mean it is not worth doing. Hang tough, finish this screenplay.

From Joseph Capdepon II Date 3/6/2011 0 stars
I suggest researching a subject before writing about it. Any cities built in that area would have natural sources of water withing the cities walls. That is the first thing wrong. The suspension of disbelief is just to great. Research, research, research.

From martin boogaard Date 8/18/2006 1/2
I think you're trying to rewrite Kindom of Heaven with an even more dishonest premise. Never in history have Muslims been the good guys and in a world of 24 hour news and the internet, that fact has never been more apparent. Also, anyone interested in the crusades, which is anyone watching a movie about the crusades, knows that they were a defensive measure to combat Islamic invasion into Europe. Bad propagandaa and equally bad writing.

From Christin Leighton Date 3/28/2006 **1/2
The idea of making a film on the crusades from the perspective of Islam is both brilliant and brave. I think it would be a hard sell in this current market, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't do it. However, this particular story so far is not fully flushing out the great possibilities of this. It would be a good idea to discover a very specific universal/timeless theme and then use the story of the war as a backdrop and a catylyst to move the story forward to what your main idea is. Most importantly you must keep honest. No one believes that heros are blameless in everything and that villains are completely evil. Give your characters depth and be strong enough to show their faults. What makes a real hero is how he overcomes his obstacles. Internally as well as externally. Good luck.

From Glenn Date 3/19/2006 *
good spelling, good grammer, bad proparganda, and false in alot of areas talk about trying to make Islamic seem like a peaceful faith when everyoen knows its not, esepcialy not back than.


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