The documentary Inside Islam, now out on DVD from the History Channel, operates on the assumption that its audience knows little or nothing about this religion. Which isn't a bad one to make, considering how ignorant much of the public is about Islam.

But while much of the information this very straightforward doc has to offer is indeed valuable, the opener is a wee bit too apologetic in regards to its chosen subject. It's a defensive posture, one shaped by the film's broadcast so soon after 9/11, in which they assume we (the audience) aren't bright enough to realize that not all Muslims are plotting to fly planes into the sides of skyscrapers.

Once we get past that, though, Inside Islam is a valuable primer on the faith, one that includes a timeline (one of the DVD's only extras), its history and interviews with numerous authors who've written on the intricacies of Islam.

I wish the filmmakers had primed our intro host, Arthur Kent, a bit better. His intonation borders on a Simpsons-style parody. Also, the History Channel's cheap budgeting really cries out, especially during those epic low-rent battle recreations, which employ a cast of tens.

» Matthew Hays