I could imagine the same reaction from people of Iran (even from non-religious ones) if Mustang was about Iran, because for some reason in that part of the world, any criticism of something related to our country is a direct attack on our identity and pride. Although I agree that the director was certainly trying to appeal to a western audience, I still think the movie was great, AND because I am from that part of the world myself, I know firsthand there is truth in what is shown in that movie.