A controversial 1970s biopic of the prophet Muhammad is to receive a big-screen makeover - THE MESSAGE is to be remade for modern film fans.

The English-language movie provoked outrage among Muslims prior to its release when it was rumoured that actor Anthony Quinn would portray the religious leader.

Depictions of the prophet are unheard of in Islam because of fears it will lead to idolatry, which is forbidden in the religion.

The claims that Quinn had been cast as Muhammad sparked riots in the U.S. in 1977, resulting in the death of two people. Quinn did not play Muhammad - instead director Moustapha Akkad signified the prophet's presence in scenes with light organ music.

Now the film's producer, Oscar Zoghbi, has revealed plans to revamp the 1976 movie and give it a modern twist.

He is looking to shoot the remake, titled The Messenger of Peace, in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia.

But Zoghbi insists he is not trying to cause offence with the film.

He says, "We have only the utmost respect for (the original film) but technology in cinema has advanced since the 1970s. This latest project will employ modern film techniques in its renewal of the first film's core messages."