One of the world’s most read and beloved poets since the 13th century, and an immensely important artistic, academic, and spiritual figure in the Muslim community, is getting his own movie. So who is going to take on the leading role of Rumi, whose poems about love, faith, and spirituality have guided generations? Academy Award-winning actor Leonardo DiCaprio, if the film’s screenwriter has his way. Hollywood hasn’t learned its lesson, Flavorwire laments, and this “not yet set in stone” casting decision is yet another disappointment, which will most likely be reflected at the box office.
Not Even Rumi is Safe from Hollywood Whitewashing
Amanda Hildebrand
Amanda Hildebrand is a painter and writer based in Los Angeles. She Instagrams: @amandahilly.