Sean Stone says 'being vilified' after converting to Islam

Oliver Stone's son Sean, who converted to Islam in Iran last week, has said that he is already experiencing a Hollywood backlash.

The ceremony was held in Isfahan, where he is researching a documentary. He now goes by the name of Sean Christopher Ali Stone.

"I've already experienced the reverse of anti-Semitism, having people within the film industry express a reluctance to work with me now that I have said a simple prayer, 'There is no God but God, and Mohammed is his messenger.' I am sure I have [bleeped] off some powerful people," the New York Post quoted the filmmaker as saying.

"Having read the Koran and having been around the Islamic culture, especially in Iran, I do believe that Mohammed is a prophet of the same god worshipped by other religions.

"I am of a Jewish bloodline, a baptized Christian who accepts Christ's teachings, the Jewish Old Testament and the Holy Koran. I believe there is one God, whether called Allah or Jehovah or whatever you wish to name him. He creates all peoples and religions. I consider myself a Jewish Christian Muslim.

"What I am trying to do is open up a dialogue about religion. There is such Islamophobia in the West. Islam is not a religion of violence any more than Judaism or Christianity is," he said.

He said that his dad welcomed the move.

"My dad said, 'Allah be with you.' My father understands that I am trying to bridge certain gaps and bring about peace."

But he has been shocked by the reaction from others.

"I didn't realize I would be so vilified. It is almost like I am a criminal for having accepted Islam.

"I didn't realize Islamophobia was that deep. People have speculated that I have done this because I am from a spoiled family or that I am lost and trying to find myself. That is ridiculous.

"I don't care if I get criticized. If I can open up a debate about religion and create some understanding, then it is worth it," he added. (ANI)