While Brendan Lemon, of the Financial Times, described her portrayal as "modestly accomplished" but lacking "little insight into the character".

BBC: Scarlett Johansson shines in lukewarm revival

The resulting debate encompassed different interpretations of Islam, issues of portrayal, language, religious tolerance, the right to freedom of speech, the character of the Arab media and more in a heightened atmosphere which cut through the normal professional courtesies.

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