SMF Praises ‘Time Hoppers’ A Sci-Fi Feature Centering Muslim Intellect
- SMF
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
(January 15, 2026 - Washington DC) The Shia Muslim Foundation proudly welcomes the US theatrical release of Time Hoppers: The Silk Road, a landmark animated feature that brings Muslim history, science, and imagination to the big screen. This film offers an accessible time-travel story for families and young audiences, filling a gap in mainstream media where Muslim contributions to science often go unnoticed.
The film follows a group of students who find the ability to travel through time. They are thrust into pivotal moments along the historic Silk Road. As they move through past civilizations, they encounter towering figures of Muslim intellectual history, confront forces seeking to erase knowledge, and learn the value of curiosity, ethics, and responsibility.
The movie mixes science fiction with education to present Muslim contributions to global civilization in a clear, engaging format. This approach normalizes Muslim characters as innovators and scientists, rather than limiting them to stereotypical roles.
Shia Representation in Creative Arts
The Shia Muslim Foundation highlights the involvement of Shahryar Rizvi, a prominent member of the Shia Muslim community. Rizvi served as a writer on both the television series and movie series, as well as a related video game. His participation reflects the depth of talent within the Shia community and signals the growing role Shia Muslims play in shaping cultural and artistic narratives beyond traditional spaces.
Rahat Husain, Executive Director of the Shia Muslim Foundation, emphasized the importance of this release:
"Stories define us. Time Hoppers does the important work of connecting young audiences with an intellectual heritage that is often ignored in Western media. Seeing members of our community, like Shahryar Rizvi, involved in this creative process proves that our voices belong in every industry. This film educates and validates the history of scientific inquiry in the Muslim world."
How to Watch
Time Hoppers: The Silk Road is coming to select US theaters for a special limited engagement via Fathom Events on February 7 and 8, 2026.
To find a theater near you and purchase tickets, visit: www.fathomentertainment.com/releases/time-hoppers-the-silk-road
For more information on the film and its educational resources, visit the official movie website: www.time-hoppers.com
Why This Matters
Time Hoppers places Muslim history and scholarship at the center of a story about knowledge and the future. For young Muslim audiences especially, the film offers something rare: heroes who look like them, think like them, and inherit a legacy of learning.
The Shia Muslim Foundation views this release as a positive cultural milestone. It demonstrates that Muslim stories can resonate with wide audiences while remaining grounded in authenticity. We congratulate the creators, cast, and contributors to Time Hoppers: The Silk Road. We look forward to seeing more projects that reflect the diversity, intellect, and creativity of the Muslim community.
About the Shia Muslim Foundation
The Shia Muslim Foundation is a Washington DC-based nonprofit dedicated to advancing the civic, social, and cultural interests of American Shia Muslims while promoting understanding, dignity, and representation across society.