"This is one of the factors that also made me very much want to make this film, apart from the fact that I loved it. If the boy hadn't been Jewish and the man hadn't been Muslim, it wouldn't have made any difference to the film. I don't think it's relevant, really"

In this quote, Omar Sharif reflects on his motivations for taking part in a particular film project. Sharif, known for his nuanced and thoughtful commentary on cultural and social problems, offers insight into how his personal worths and interests line up with the movie's themes. His statement highlights a multifaceted gratitude for the movie that exceeds simple aesthetics or storytelling; it explores deeper societal stories.

Sharif acknowledges an individual love for the movie, recommending an intrinsic connection with its story or its message. Nevertheless, he highlights an intriguing point: the characters' religious identities, specifically the young boy being Jewish and the male being Muslim, are not central to the movie's core value or messages. This recommends that the movie's essence, feelings, and social dynamics transcend specific cultural or spiritual identities. What Sharif is mentioning is a universal element in storytelling, where the core emotional truths or moral predicaments resonate no matter the characters' backgrounds. It talks to the universal nature of human experiences and feelings.

By stating, "If the young boy had not been Jewish and the man hadn't been Muslim, it wouldn't have made any distinction to the movie", Sharif welcomes viewers to look past the external identifiers of the characters to concentrate on the generally relatable aspects of their relationship or journey. He seems to be recommending that the film explores themes that prevail to all humanity, such as love, understanding, acceptance, or conflict, which can take place between individuals of any background.

Furthermore, Sharif's remark, "I do not believe it's pertinent, actually", could indicate his desire for audiences to move beyond surface-level distinctions and rather engage with the shared human experience. In an increasingly varied world, Sharif's point of view encourages the embrace of typical humankind over dissentious identity markers, making the film not only an artistic endeavor but also a prospective vehicle for social commentary and modification.