Cutting Through Rocks (2025) Movie Script
1
Sara, my daughter, are you home?
What's that?
It's candy, it tastes good.
Sara, I don't want it.
Eat it, it tastes good.
Hello, Sister. Hi, Mother.
How are you?
How's it going?
Didn't you go to work?
I was off today.
Did you calculate the share?
Look, Sister...
I calculated
the harvesting share of our land.
Here's your share.
This Is your check.
Here you go.
I forgot about that.
Also, this cash
IS the remaining piece of your share.
Great.
I'll distribute the shares
of the other siblings too.
Thank you.
- Of course.
Have you distributed the wheat money yet?
Not yet.
When will it be ready?
Still not sure yet.
So, you forgot about me.
I forgot to give this other share earlier.
I forgot that too.
I will give you the share
for the wheat soon.
Thank you!
We are six sisters
and three younger brothers.
Sometimes we gather at my motherss.
My rather passed away when I was 16.
By that time, all my sisters were married
ana my brothers were little.
So I became the breadwinner of the family.
Now, my siblings have their own ramilles.
And I live alone.
Come In, Sister.
Our brothers have been asking the sisters
to sign a document...
for a very long time.
They didn't tell me.
It wasn't what I wanted.
The brothers gathered all of us.
The sisters signed a document,
saying we'll give it all away.
The sisters gave away
all our inheritance to them.
They have no right to do that.
They can't force you to do that.
Our father left behind
quite a large inheritance--
None of us sisters could say anything.
We all remained silent and signed.
Don't be sad.
Now we don't even have the right
to drink water in our father's house.
Hello, Brother.
Bring me the document
you had the sisters sign.
Stay out of itI
Why did you force our sisters to sign?
It's none of your businessI
Of course it Is!
Now that they ve signed it's a done deal.
All our sisters are upset!
Too late,
they shouldn't have signed it in the first place.
Sara is so angry.
Stay out of this.
Don't you get it?
No, I guess I must be an idiot.
Keep out of this.
Are you out of your mind?
Everyone was fine with signing.
Why are you involving yourself?
It's okay, calm down everyone--
Bring me the document!
He slapped me. I'll show him.
Okay, calm down.
Why would he write
such a ridiculous agreement?
And ask you to sign it!
He has to give it back right now.
They must return the document right now.
Shame on a brother to deceive his sisters.
-Shame on him.
-Calm down.
It's bullshit.
The document is coming.
Don't get stressed.
Why would he write
such an unfair agreement?
Here.
-How many pages?
-Just one.
Now, It's over.
It's all gone now.
Now it doesn't have any legal value.
We were naive to sign.
We did it with such passion.
I Know.
Sara rebelled today...
and started a coup!
I'll sleep well tonight.
Alter having a frew daughters...
my father was hoping rfor a son.
Jo help fum out with 1arming needads.
But I was born a giri.
My father took me to places
where only boys were allowed.
I fell free.
He let me choose my own clothes.
He taught me to ride a motorcycle,
and how to do construction.
Skills that are uncommon for women,
even today.
My father and I planted these two trees.
When I feel overwhelmed. I visit them.
Sara, you've been divorced
for a while now.
Yes, it's been 10 years.
You made it fashionable here.
-Divorce?
-Yes.
It became front page news.
It's more acceptable now.
Sara, we're happy to hear
that you're running for council.
You've always supported women.
If you run,
our girls will have a better future.
That's right.
I can't make all these changes on my own.
You all need to want change.
We all want that.
The people you delivered
as a midwife will vote for you.
There are so many of them now.
One of them is my sister.
No way! How old is she?
She is 18, a first time voter.
She'll vote for you.
Great to see you!
- Goodbye, my friend!
Good luck!
Out of all 300 villages in this area...
Have you ever seen a woman elected?
I have never seen this in my life.
Men and women have qifferent roles.
It won't work well for us
If woman rules over men.
You should hang up my poster.
I haven't seen your poster.
Who will you vote for?
We'll vote for Mirza, no doubt.
Everyone will vote for him.
Don't waste your time.
I promise you.
I'll accomplish all of my goals
in four years.
If this tree doesn't fruit in four years...
I will cut it!
Same with the council.
If your work doesn't pay off...
Why should I vote?
You want us to vote for you.
But I doubt
your ability to accomplish anything.
I am also running...
to take one of the five council seats.
Brother, if I'm elected,
we've got each other's back.
I don't want to just promise things.
I want to take action.
All of the things that the previous
councils have failed to do...
I will make it all happen.
It won't work.
Why not?
Well, you have no council experience.
You said that bringing fuel
to the village was not possible.
But I will get the permissions for gas.
That's nonsense.
The things you think I can't do,
that are impossible...
I will do 1t all.
Alright then, we'll see.
You think you know everything?
Okay, we'll see.
Sorry, I have to go.
Goodnight.
There are at least 700 women here today.
Show of hands,
how many of you are truly happy?
You are all dealing with so much in life.
My heart aches
when I see an 11-year-old girl,
who already has two kids.
She has no education.
She has no choice
in the direction of her life.
She didn't have a childhood.
She should have gone to school.
instead she becomes a housewiie.
People say, Sara, you are the exception.
You are different from the rest of us.
I am no different.
If you fight for what you want...
Believe me, you're all like me.
You are all smart.
You all have the power to do anything.
I've also faced hard times.
As a woman,
some people harass me saying...
Why do you ride a motorcycle?
Why are you out in public?
Why do you dress differently?
Why this? Why that?
Why do you confront men?
They say, 'No makeup?
Why aren't you feminine?
Well, I'm comfortable the way I am.
Our village is facing inequality.
There are still people
who prefer the old traditions.
And remain against women.
Sara, men can hear you outside!
Let them hear! I'm not afraid.
I Stand by what I say.
Even if men don't like my ideas.
We usually don't vote.
We don't have basic things.
Past councils
haven't done anything at all.
If I'm elected, I'll be at your service.
We're all going to vote for you.
-Make sure to bring gas.
- I promise.
We need It.
-I will bring gas and many other things.
-And other things.
We will only vote for you.
I will make these promises a reality.
Dear Villagers!
Attention, please.
Today is election day.
The polls are now open.
They will remain open until evening.
Don't forget your ID cards.
Come over here.
-Me?
-Both of you.
You're wearing matching colors.
All Sara supporters
are wearing the same color.
Auntie Sara!
Auntie Sara!
Hope we can celebrate together!
We just voted!
We voted only for you.
Just for you.
Only Sara!
They're going to vote too.
Me and my family voted for you.
-You have a lot of supporters.
-Auntie Sara!
I keep my word. I'm going to vote for you.
Cheers!
Sara, can you hear me?
Hello?
ls the result out yet?
No, they're still counting the votes.
Write the tally.
Okay, go on.
Hello?
Hello?
Can you repeat it?
This is for the five elected
council members?
The elected council members are...
Mr. Qasem, Mr. Mirza...
Mr. Masim...
Sara is the first with the highest votes.
Thank you for your support.
More people are coming.
Cheers.
You are all winners!
You earned It.
The victory belongs to you.
You're the first woman
ever elected in this region.
The real winners are the youth.
Yes!
The village belongs
to the young generation!
To your happiness!
Sara, look over here!
Girls, aren't you happy to see
Ms. Shahverdi?
Yes, we are!
Listen up! Listen to what she says.
I am the only female motorcycle rider
In this region.
Since I was 10, in fourth grade.
To be able to ride,
I had to make my own style of clothes.
I'm prepared to ride at any time.
Just like this, look!
I'm wearing three pairs of pants.
A long sleeve shirt,
my scarf is tucked inside...
Then this hat will block the wind.
I'm also ready for a fight.
Look, it won't move up or down.
Here.
I want to show you, look.
In my class,
there were only two girls among 35 boys.
I went to the same school.
Two girls gave 35 boys a hard time.
I kept my class in line.
I was my class representative.
Why do some of you drop out of school?
No support, especially from our parents.
Your parents don't approve?
Some families
don't let their girls continue school.
It's not very common for girls
to study out here.
Our parents say
we can't continue after 9th grade.
-Your parents say that?
-Yes, because it's against tradition.
Everyone has problems with girls!
Yes, everyone.
You must see yourselves as doctors,
teachers, engineers,
so that you have power.
Early marriage won't make you happy.
By 18 you should be ready
to attend university.
-You can get married by 24 or 25.
-How about 30?
Who wants to continue their education?
Be willing to sign a promise.
That's what I like to see.
We want to change
the culture of the village.
-Are you all ready?
-Yes!
Call me by my first name, Sara.
Sara! Sara!
You're listering to Zanjan Radio.
Stay tuned!
Greetings from your local radio station.
Today, the elected council members
from 300 villages
will gather in the central mosque
fo officially commence their work.
Let's wish them luck.
Why were you taking a selfie?
I wanted a selfie of us.
Take it now!
Sara, everyone was watching you.
I don't care.
I don't want you
to take pictures in public.
I went to the Inauguration today
to show that I'm the only woman elected
among all these men.
I'm out of here,
I'm not looking for a headache.
Be quiet. Don't fight.
I didn't say anything, he started it.
Let him be. He's like that.
Everyone has their own point of view.
Brother, do I comment on
everything he does?
Just accept his comments
to end the argument.
Say, 'I'm sorry, I won't do it again.
That's It.
I was just happy that my brother and I
were both elected together.
And I only wanted to remember the moment.
You've got to be smarter
about your approach.
You can't always fight with everyone.
You guys are not on the same page.
I can't be okay with everything.
Sometimes it's okay to be.
Listen, for example...
We have had council elections
for many years now.
Whoever gets the most votes,
gets the official seal.
Now, the elders are asking for the seal.
But I don't think
the oldest Is the wisest.
I got the most votes,
so the stamp is mine.
Sara, give it up.
I won't give up the stamp
to any councilmen.
That's all.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Ms. Sara,
I am the teacher at the girls school.
I'm contacting you about a girl
named Fereshien.
She was married off at the age of 12.
Now she's going through a aivorce.
Her family is planning
fo marry her off again.
We are fold not to intervene
with early marriage ISSUES.
But maybe you could do something.
Who is Fereshteh"s new suitor?
He has proposed.
-Okay.
-After that
he will do his military service,
and then return to marry her.
She is still a child.
Why did you marry her off
In the first place?
I didn't. It was their fault, all of them.
They make it sound
like 1t was my decision.
They pressured me.
They said "Go, he has a house and money."
It was not my decision!
I was a child. My parents decided for me.
I say Fereshteh isn't divorced yet.
You're getting sober,
your life Is not ideal.
I'm asking you not to marry her off again.
Until things get sorted out,
she can stay with me.
Okay, we will think about it.
Hello.
How are you?
What is the reason for your visit?
I was 12 and studying.
When he came to propose,
my family forced me to marry him.
I did not consent to this marriage.
He's 35, the same age as my father.
How come it took four years,
for you to arrive at this conclusion?
You know, I was a child.
No.
What is your reason now?
I couldn't tolerate
being in that situation.
I had a difficult childhood.
It was also hard to be with him.
You rushed to marry.
Don't rush to divorce.
If you do, you'll become a divorcee.
Your situation will become worse.
Have you thought of any of that?
Don't think about your situation
as bad or unlucky...
Don"t compare yourself with others...
No.
You should accept it
as a part of your destiny:.
If this Is just because
of the age difference...
Yes, he Is 23 years older.
It Is what it is.
I am afraid of one thing:
If I go back to him,
and I then have a child...
I won't file a divorce with a child.
Because I can't let go of a child.
I wouldn't want my child's future
to turn out like mine.
As a grown up woman,
think of how to fix the problem.
And how you can adjust yourself.
Try to accept him
and the situation as it is
rather than destroying it.
It takes a while for the judge to decide.
Are you okay with her staying here?
I have no problem with it.
Until her divorce is finalized,
she can stay here.
Yes, she can stay.
Since she Is underage, I need
your permission for her to stay here.
Sure.
Right here.
When you go through a divorce,
it's hard to get on your feet again.
What's your choice now?
I want to study and be somebody.
-For real?
-Yes, seriously.
I want to impress everyone
with my actions.
-Are you sure?
-I'm positive.
Promise?
I promise for real.
Sara, I want to leave
this messaqe to thank you!
Foaay I noticed construction
happening all over the village.
They say It's for fuel lines.
You've really made us all happy!
Come over this way.
The gas lines have to be finished
IN one month.
Dear Villagers!
Attention, please!
This is an important announcement.
Many households lack
a certificate or ownership.
Without it, you won to be eligible
to receive fuel services.
You must have housing docurmentation.
For any questions you can visit Ms. Sara.
Tell people to hand In
their old gas cylinders.
Ms. Sara!
-Hello, how are you?
-Good, come In.
-Is your gas connected?
-No, not yet.
Have you started laying the gas line?
Yes.
We're setting it up everywhere.
We don't have it yet.
-Who is the owner of the house?
-My husband.
It won't work.
Because he doesn't have
the official documents to prove it.
He won't be eligible.
Will he give you house ownership?
He won't agree.
What should we do?
I can help your husband
with the paperwork,
If he shares ownership with you.
I'll make a note to remember.
It will work if he is willing.
-We can make this work.
-Thank you.
Please, speak to my husband about this.
Okay, no problem.
Goodbye.
Sara...
I saw you Installing gas lines
in the alleyways.
Why won't you bring one to my house?
Uncle Shami, I've already told you.
You first need to have
official housing documentation.
I don't have official ones.
I'll help you with the papers,
If you share ownership with your wife.
I can't do that.
Have you ever heard of male elders
sharing house ownership with their wives?
Yes, at least 60 households
did exactly that recently.
It won't work. I won't do this.
I don't want the share.
Why not?
It's not a common thing to do.
It's okay If it's also under your name.
You're also contributing a lot
by working in the home,
and raising your children.
Based on our country's law,
if your husband passes,
as his wife, you won't inherit much.
After a long married life,
I don't want to cause conflict.
It won't cause you any trouble.
The gas Is an excuse to give you
half of the rights to the house.
I don't know.
It will be just fine.
This is Iran, and we're here.
This Is our village.
This Is the main road
and the cross street.
Would you like to ride around
on a motorcycle?
That would be a dream.
Push the gas!
Go on.
You gotta make it work, come on.
Be strong! Press with strength!
Not timidly, with strength!
Look, Fereshteh. I told you.
You must repeat it until you learn.
Okay? Watch how I do it.
Press that down.
Okay, take this. Hold that down.
When you're ready,
hit the gas without fear!
Yes, release the clutch.
Go!
Go this way, go.
Hit the gas! No fear!
I got stuck there, sorry.
What for?
I thought you'd be mad
that I broke the motorcycle.
No worries, It happens.
A motorcycle Is like a human.
It faces hardship sometimes.
Life is like that too.
I asked my Mom how I was born.
She said you delivered me.
I like that you delivered me.
I want to be like you.
Become a midwife
and deliver babies.
Fereshteh, I've delivered 400 kids.
I've stayed up so many nights.
Unable to sleep.
They'd knock on my door
at midnight, and I'd have to go.
I'd stay up until sunrise.
Sometimes even until the next sunset.
Did you ride a motorcycle
when you came to deliver me?
Yeah, I came with my motorcycle.
I rode the motorcycle...
I parked It In your backyard
and you were born in the morning.
When I ride,
I feel like I can do anything.
Did you see how well you ride?
I couldn't believe I was riding.
-Really?
-I learned so quickly.
You see?
-I am riding iln my mind right now.
-Really?
You rode really well.
Hereby, Shamsollah Kordi, son of...
-Son of?
-Qanbarali.
Qanbarali...
residing in the village of Bazin...
allocate 200 square meters
from my residential property...
Allocate half of it...
to my wife, Ms. Golbano...
Still writing?
It only took him
ten cups of tea to decide.
Here.
Uncle Shami, please sign here.
-Do you have an inkpad?
-I think so.
Thank you.
Now I'm afraid that my wife
will build a wall
IN the Middle of the house.
Don't worry. I'm glad you signed.
Now there are 100 villagers
who share the ownership of their land.
We put this here and then...
wait for a while.
Like we're here to...
Let's say that's the fetus, okay?
From the center here,
IS a six month pregnancy.
Two centimeters above IS seven months,
two centimeters above IS nine months,
two more above Is eight months.
Meaning that until eight months
It goes up,
and in the ninth month it goes down.
Oh, the uterus opens.
No, it'll come towards the pelvis.
That's not exactly right!
I'm just trying.
Hold on to the feet...
Tap its back and it'll cry.
Not like that.
You have to hold it like this.
Look, like this.
Tap like this.
God bless your child!
We'll make a circular park here.
We will install playground equipment here.
It'll be a circular park.
Wouldn't that be nice?
Let's grade the land with the bulldozers.
From now on,
encourage your kids to study.
They won't have any support,
and it will be unfortunate.
You have no lands to pass on to them.
Their only way to survive is to study.
I want my daughter to study.
Zahra says, I feel sorry for you.
You work nonstop at home.
She's right!
She doesn't want to turn out like me.
-Zahra will study.
- I want her to.
Who do you wish to become?
Not sure, either a nurse or a dentist.
A doctor or a nurse.
Always aim for the best.
If not all,
half of your dreams will come true.
You're like a role model to me,
making me aware.
Your advice
helps me decide about my future.
Zahra looks up to you,
she rides a motorcycle.
No way!
How come I haven't seen you?
I'm really happy to hear that.
You're the future Sara!
Can you give me a ride?
-Yes.
-Seriously?
Let's plan a motorcycle ride together.
Can you ride too?
In the backyard, but I always fall.
-What about you?
-We practice sometimes.
Who wants to join me
for a motorcycle ride?
-Me!
-Me too!
Great, and you?
I will get your parents' permission.
-Does your motorcycle work?
-We'll fix it.
Give me a high five!
You guys just follow my car.
Inside and outside of the village.
Let's cover you up
SO you are safe in the village.
Now you're not recognizable.
-Do you recognize me?
-Can you tell who I am?
All set, except for sunglasses.
Are we going for a robbery or motor ride?
This feels great!
It's so beautiful out here.
Let's pass quickly.
Cover up your face.
Let's just hope no one recognizes us.
Watch out for the big car.
The boys are following us.
Uncle is coming after us.
-Who let you ride?
-You gave me permission!
Don't hit her!
-Get going!
-I am going.
Stop! Don't hit her!
Get the hell out of here!
Don't hit!
Come sit in my car.
No, I'll take her.
Come over here.
Don't you hit her again.
It's okay, don't worry.
To do something unconventional,
sometimes there are consequences.
That's your uncle.
It's none of his business.
Your parents let you ride.
Who's that?
Zahra's uncle is coming.
Go Inside.
Farzi, get in the car. We need to talk.
We used to be playmates, classmates!
We grew up together, Farzi.
I used to take my father's motorcycle
and run away.
-You're different.
-I am no different.
- I used to do that all the time!
-It was different then.
It was the same.
It's okay to punish a girl sometimes.
No, you shouldn't have hit her.
She shouldn"t be out. That's all.
She was having a good time,
you shouldn't have hit her.
Men used to say,
"Give girls shoes, but not paths.
Alright, just don't hit her.
Ms. Sara,
bring the seaI
Io the other council mem ers.
Some are complaining
to stamp their documents.
You must return the seal today.
I Knew you weren't qoing
fo be able to handle this.
Are you after the seal?
SO you are after power.
The seal is mine, there's no question.
Let go of the stamp.
I won't give the stamp to anybody:.
Goodbye.
What does that mean?
Aren't you here to serve the village?
I won't give it up.
Now is not the time--
That's it.
- This is endless--
The age of elders deciding is over.
No more favoritism
for any party or family.
So, you're looking for power.
Alright then, if you want to fight...
I will quit my position
if I don't get the seal!
Even better.
Quitting is better
than you having the stamp.
Fine!
I thought of you differently.
-It's not for you to decide.
-Yes, it Is.
I got the most votes,
and the seal Is mine.
-No, other council members should agree.
-Alright, whatever.
Fine.
I'll show you all.
Sara, don't fight over nonsense.
I know what you're after.
-Get out of here.
-What's happening, Sister?
You want to legalize your wrongdoing.
I know all the illegal stuff you've done!
Calm down, Sister.
I have the right to take the seal,
and everyone knows it.
They're worried they can"t stamp
their illegal documents.
-Cut the nonsense.
-That's what they're after.
You'd better leave now.
Shame on you!
You'd better go too.
Do you like fighting with everyone?
Brother, they've had problems with me
from the beginning.
Don't fight.
He started the argument-
telling me that I'm only after power.
What happened to the circle?
Why did you change the circle to a square?
What do you mean?
This is how a park should look like.
I calculated it to be a 30 meter circle.
The street has to have a shape.
It has to work with the dimensions
of the street.
-Why did you ruin that route?
-To make it better.
How many meters?
I calculated the sides and...
there will be a pond in the center.
Mr. Engineer,
from that corner onwards
needs to be redone.
It doesn't work.
Stop, Mohammad!
Stop, brother!
Look, Mr. Engineer.
You see that crooked path?
It has to go straight to the other side.
-No need for that.
-Stop!
-We can't do this.
- don't feel like arguing.
You do as I tell you.
What do you do with the light pole?
It stays there.
-It'll cause accidents.
-No, It won't.
-It won"t work!
-Yes, it will.
You can't make things up.
Whatever I do, you change.
I make a circle,
you change it to a square.
You can't keep doing this!
I asked you to make a circle over here.
-What are you basing this on?
-It's a square!
What?
It has to have a shape.
-What's that measurement?
-Twelve meters.
Why did you do that??
-I'm asking you to take care of that.
-No problem.
Do you have any chalk to make a mark?
Bring It over.
He thinks I'll give In
just because he's my brother.
Some men in the village are complaining,
"We can't go to this woman's house
at night to stamp documents.
I have daytime office hours.
I only work at night if it's urgent.
They're making excuses.
You should cooperate.
I don't like their behavior.
They've been humiliating me from day one.
So many rulers
have had power and then lost it.
So many village chiefs...
the lords and their houses...
Nothing is left of them, all gone.
Sorry if my words bothered you.
-You understand what I mean?
-No worries.
Take care.
Is my foot pain related to my kidney?
I feel pain from here all the way down.
No, it has nothing to do with the kidney.
You applied pressure to your back.
Or my weight?
Could be stress related.
I think you're mentally exhausted.
You are beginning to harm yourself.
You should have a lighter workload.
Either do less council work...
or rest for a little while.
You might even want to consider
quitting the council.
Your health is far more important.
These are some pills
and tests for you to take.
Ms. Sara...
You have a letter from the court
A complaint has been filed against you.
You must present yourself to the court.
The interrogator
asked me questions that I adian to expect
Why did you divorce your husband?
Why do women visit your home ?
Why do you wear men's clothing?
Why isn't your vorce feminine?
I Ask why I am here.
The interrogator says that the complaint
IS for operating a dishonorable house.
I had no idea
where the accusations came from.
They gave me a letter to go see
a medaical expert witness.
I go and ask why I am brought there.
They say for a sex change,
from female fto male.
I Ask why?
They say It's for your own good.
I've never been this upset
In my entire lite.
They have questioned my iaentity.
They want to change me.
They want me to be somebody I am not
They've searched Sara's house for hours.
I Wonder why she's single.
No wonder she's In trouble.
A woman should live
either with her father or her husband.
Shahverdi.
How old are you?
Forty three.
Do you know why you're here?
It's about my gender identity.
My house has been searched for hours.
Based on the Judge's request,
to assess your real identity
we must conduct some tests.
I'm comfortable with my gender.
Why do women come to your place?
Is this a crime??
Of course If it's with intention.
This can't be the reason why
I can't support others.
Let's say I help a woman study.
How is this a crime?
Look, If you are really a woman,
you should be considerate
of the rules and traditions.
In our society, a woman
can't just do anything she wants.
You mean If I were a man,
I could do anything.
But because I'm a woman, I can't.
We're not here to argue.
We will conduct some tests...
The rest is up to the judge to decide.
We will follow the rules.
My uncle came,
wanting to take me with him.
But I said, only my parents
are allowed to take me.
I'm worried that my uncle will hit me.
I"m SO anxious.
They're here.
Don't worry, he can't hurt you here.
Yes. How are you, Hossein?
Fereshteh, let's go.
Where?
Home.
I want to stay here.
It's not up to you.
You re taking her, but you can't hit her.
No, I won't.
Let me be clear.
Her father wants her back home.
Just come in for a second.
Mr. Farhad, close the door and come In.
Okay, come In.
Weren't you the one who decided
that she could stay here?
Well, the family made other decisions.
I'm sick, I know nothing.
Leaving here, I don't know
if it'll be for better or worse.
Let's go, your uncle is waiting.
At least have dinner before leaving.
No, thanks.
Goodnight.
I wish my dad was here.
He would hold my hands tightly.
Then he'd say...
'Don't worry, my daughter.
It'll be alright.
Auntie Sara!
This is for you.
You're Cordially Invited to
Zahra's Wedding
Sara, you came to our school
and spoke to the girls.
They promised not to get married young,
and to study instead.
This person is married.
She's also married.
Same with this one.
She's also gone.
Seven, eight...
nine, ten...
eleven...
twelve, thirteen, fourteen...
fifteen, sixteen...
Unfortunately, there's only five left.
Yes, they're all married now.
Ms. Shahveray...
The court has made Its final decrsion.
Based on the test results,
sex change surgery iS not needed.
But there are some things
you should consider.
I go to the judge.
The judge says,
You don't need a sex change surgery.
'But don't help other women too much.
Mind your own business.
I suggest you get married soon
fo avoid getting into trouble.
The judge decides to close my case.
They did everything they could
to stop me from moving forward in life.
All of this feels like a game.
Where is the justice
for all these false accusations?
Who will heal this pain?
I was exhausted for a while.
Then I thought that if I don't do anything,
nothing will ever change.
I may have wanted big changes,
but now I know it demands more patience.
Sometimes a small step ls enough.
I Spoke to the parents of the girls
who are not married yet.
We planned a motorcycle ride.
This time I asked the parents to join.
Ready to go?
You two stay here.
And you, come forward.
It's not a competition.
We're all riding together.
Great!
Ready?
Sara, my daughter, are you home?
What's that?
It's candy, it tastes good.
Sara, I don't want it.
Eat it, it tastes good.
Hello, Sister. Hi, Mother.
How are you?
How's it going?
Didn't you go to work?
I was off today.
Did you calculate the share?
Look, Sister...
I calculated
the harvesting share of our land.
Here's your share.
This Is your check.
Here you go.
I forgot about that.
Also, this cash
IS the remaining piece of your share.
Great.
I'll distribute the shares
of the other siblings too.
Thank you.
- Of course.
Have you distributed the wheat money yet?
Not yet.
When will it be ready?
Still not sure yet.
So, you forgot about me.
I forgot to give this other share earlier.
I forgot that too.
I will give you the share
for the wheat soon.
Thank you!
We are six sisters
and three younger brothers.
Sometimes we gather at my motherss.
My rather passed away when I was 16.
By that time, all my sisters were married
ana my brothers were little.
So I became the breadwinner of the family.
Now, my siblings have their own ramilles.
And I live alone.
Come In, Sister.
Our brothers have been asking the sisters
to sign a document...
for a very long time.
They didn't tell me.
It wasn't what I wanted.
The brothers gathered all of us.
The sisters signed a document,
saying we'll give it all away.
The sisters gave away
all our inheritance to them.
They have no right to do that.
They can't force you to do that.
Our father left behind
quite a large inheritance--
None of us sisters could say anything.
We all remained silent and signed.
Don't be sad.
Now we don't even have the right
to drink water in our father's house.
Hello, Brother.
Bring me the document
you had the sisters sign.
Stay out of itI
Why did you force our sisters to sign?
It's none of your businessI
Of course it Is!
Now that they ve signed it's a done deal.
All our sisters are upset!
Too late,
they shouldn't have signed it in the first place.
Sara is so angry.
Stay out of this.
Don't you get it?
No, I guess I must be an idiot.
Keep out of this.
Are you out of your mind?
Everyone was fine with signing.
Why are you involving yourself?
It's okay, calm down everyone--
Bring me the document!
He slapped me. I'll show him.
Okay, calm down.
Why would he write
such a ridiculous agreement?
And ask you to sign it!
He has to give it back right now.
They must return the document right now.
Shame on a brother to deceive his sisters.
-Shame on him.
-Calm down.
It's bullshit.
The document is coming.
Don't get stressed.
Why would he write
such an unfair agreement?
Here.
-How many pages?
-Just one.
Now, It's over.
It's all gone now.
Now it doesn't have any legal value.
We were naive to sign.
We did it with such passion.
I Know.
Sara rebelled today...
and started a coup!
I'll sleep well tonight.
Alter having a frew daughters...
my father was hoping rfor a son.
Jo help fum out with 1arming needads.
But I was born a giri.
My father took me to places
where only boys were allowed.
I fell free.
He let me choose my own clothes.
He taught me to ride a motorcycle,
and how to do construction.
Skills that are uncommon for women,
even today.
My father and I planted these two trees.
When I feel overwhelmed. I visit them.
Sara, you've been divorced
for a while now.
Yes, it's been 10 years.
You made it fashionable here.
-Divorce?
-Yes.
It became front page news.
It's more acceptable now.
Sara, we're happy to hear
that you're running for council.
You've always supported women.
If you run,
our girls will have a better future.
That's right.
I can't make all these changes on my own.
You all need to want change.
We all want that.
The people you delivered
as a midwife will vote for you.
There are so many of them now.
One of them is my sister.
No way! How old is she?
She is 18, a first time voter.
She'll vote for you.
Great to see you!
- Goodbye, my friend!
Good luck!
Out of all 300 villages in this area...
Have you ever seen a woman elected?
I have never seen this in my life.
Men and women have qifferent roles.
It won't work well for us
If woman rules over men.
You should hang up my poster.
I haven't seen your poster.
Who will you vote for?
We'll vote for Mirza, no doubt.
Everyone will vote for him.
Don't waste your time.
I promise you.
I'll accomplish all of my goals
in four years.
If this tree doesn't fruit in four years...
I will cut it!
Same with the council.
If your work doesn't pay off...
Why should I vote?
You want us to vote for you.
But I doubt
your ability to accomplish anything.
I am also running...
to take one of the five council seats.
Brother, if I'm elected,
we've got each other's back.
I don't want to just promise things.
I want to take action.
All of the things that the previous
councils have failed to do...
I will make it all happen.
It won't work.
Why not?
Well, you have no council experience.
You said that bringing fuel
to the village was not possible.
But I will get the permissions for gas.
That's nonsense.
The things you think I can't do,
that are impossible...
I will do 1t all.
Alright then, we'll see.
You think you know everything?
Okay, we'll see.
Sorry, I have to go.
Goodnight.
There are at least 700 women here today.
Show of hands,
how many of you are truly happy?
You are all dealing with so much in life.
My heart aches
when I see an 11-year-old girl,
who already has two kids.
She has no education.
She has no choice
in the direction of her life.
She didn't have a childhood.
She should have gone to school.
instead she becomes a housewiie.
People say, Sara, you are the exception.
You are different from the rest of us.
I am no different.
If you fight for what you want...
Believe me, you're all like me.
You are all smart.
You all have the power to do anything.
I've also faced hard times.
As a woman,
some people harass me saying...
Why do you ride a motorcycle?
Why are you out in public?
Why do you dress differently?
Why this? Why that?
Why do you confront men?
They say, 'No makeup?
Why aren't you feminine?
Well, I'm comfortable the way I am.
Our village is facing inequality.
There are still people
who prefer the old traditions.
And remain against women.
Sara, men can hear you outside!
Let them hear! I'm not afraid.
I Stand by what I say.
Even if men don't like my ideas.
We usually don't vote.
We don't have basic things.
Past councils
haven't done anything at all.
If I'm elected, I'll be at your service.
We're all going to vote for you.
-Make sure to bring gas.
- I promise.
We need It.
-I will bring gas and many other things.
-And other things.
We will only vote for you.
I will make these promises a reality.
Dear Villagers!
Attention, please.
Today is election day.
The polls are now open.
They will remain open until evening.
Don't forget your ID cards.
Come over here.
-Me?
-Both of you.
You're wearing matching colors.
All Sara supporters
are wearing the same color.
Auntie Sara!
Auntie Sara!
Hope we can celebrate together!
We just voted!
We voted only for you.
Just for you.
Only Sara!
They're going to vote too.
Me and my family voted for you.
-You have a lot of supporters.
-Auntie Sara!
I keep my word. I'm going to vote for you.
Cheers!
Sara, can you hear me?
Hello?
ls the result out yet?
No, they're still counting the votes.
Write the tally.
Okay, go on.
Hello?
Hello?
Can you repeat it?
This is for the five elected
council members?
The elected council members are...
Mr. Qasem, Mr. Mirza...
Mr. Masim...
Sara is the first with the highest votes.
Thank you for your support.
More people are coming.
Cheers.
You are all winners!
You earned It.
The victory belongs to you.
You're the first woman
ever elected in this region.
The real winners are the youth.
Yes!
The village belongs
to the young generation!
To your happiness!
Sara, look over here!
Girls, aren't you happy to see
Ms. Shahverdi?
Yes, we are!
Listen up! Listen to what she says.
I am the only female motorcycle rider
In this region.
Since I was 10, in fourth grade.
To be able to ride,
I had to make my own style of clothes.
I'm prepared to ride at any time.
Just like this, look!
I'm wearing three pairs of pants.
A long sleeve shirt,
my scarf is tucked inside...
Then this hat will block the wind.
I'm also ready for a fight.
Look, it won't move up or down.
Here.
I want to show you, look.
In my class,
there were only two girls among 35 boys.
I went to the same school.
Two girls gave 35 boys a hard time.
I kept my class in line.
I was my class representative.
Why do some of you drop out of school?
No support, especially from our parents.
Your parents don't approve?
Some families
don't let their girls continue school.
It's not very common for girls
to study out here.
Our parents say
we can't continue after 9th grade.
-Your parents say that?
-Yes, because it's against tradition.
Everyone has problems with girls!
Yes, everyone.
You must see yourselves as doctors,
teachers, engineers,
so that you have power.
Early marriage won't make you happy.
By 18 you should be ready
to attend university.
-You can get married by 24 or 25.
-How about 30?
Who wants to continue their education?
Be willing to sign a promise.
That's what I like to see.
We want to change
the culture of the village.
-Are you all ready?
-Yes!
Call me by my first name, Sara.
Sara! Sara!
You're listering to Zanjan Radio.
Stay tuned!
Greetings from your local radio station.
Today, the elected council members
from 300 villages
will gather in the central mosque
fo officially commence their work.
Let's wish them luck.
Why were you taking a selfie?
I wanted a selfie of us.
Take it now!
Sara, everyone was watching you.
I don't care.
I don't want you
to take pictures in public.
I went to the Inauguration today
to show that I'm the only woman elected
among all these men.
I'm out of here,
I'm not looking for a headache.
Be quiet. Don't fight.
I didn't say anything, he started it.
Let him be. He's like that.
Everyone has their own point of view.
Brother, do I comment on
everything he does?
Just accept his comments
to end the argument.
Say, 'I'm sorry, I won't do it again.
That's It.
I was just happy that my brother and I
were both elected together.
And I only wanted to remember the moment.
You've got to be smarter
about your approach.
You can't always fight with everyone.
You guys are not on the same page.
I can't be okay with everything.
Sometimes it's okay to be.
Listen, for example...
We have had council elections
for many years now.
Whoever gets the most votes,
gets the official seal.
Now, the elders are asking for the seal.
But I don't think
the oldest Is the wisest.
I got the most votes,
so the stamp is mine.
Sara, give it up.
I won't give up the stamp
to any councilmen.
That's all.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Ms. Sara,
I am the teacher at the girls school.
I'm contacting you about a girl
named Fereshien.
She was married off at the age of 12.
Now she's going through a aivorce.
Her family is planning
fo marry her off again.
We are fold not to intervene
with early marriage ISSUES.
But maybe you could do something.
Who is Fereshteh"s new suitor?
He has proposed.
-Okay.
-After that
he will do his military service,
and then return to marry her.
She is still a child.
Why did you marry her off
In the first place?
I didn't. It was their fault, all of them.
They make it sound
like 1t was my decision.
They pressured me.
They said "Go, he has a house and money."
It was not my decision!
I was a child. My parents decided for me.
I say Fereshteh isn't divorced yet.
You're getting sober,
your life Is not ideal.
I'm asking you not to marry her off again.
Until things get sorted out,
she can stay with me.
Okay, we will think about it.
Hello.
How are you?
What is the reason for your visit?
I was 12 and studying.
When he came to propose,
my family forced me to marry him.
I did not consent to this marriage.
He's 35, the same age as my father.
How come it took four years,
for you to arrive at this conclusion?
You know, I was a child.
No.
What is your reason now?
I couldn't tolerate
being in that situation.
I had a difficult childhood.
It was also hard to be with him.
You rushed to marry.
Don't rush to divorce.
If you do, you'll become a divorcee.
Your situation will become worse.
Have you thought of any of that?
Don't think about your situation
as bad or unlucky...
Don"t compare yourself with others...
No.
You should accept it
as a part of your destiny:.
If this Is just because
of the age difference...
Yes, he Is 23 years older.
It Is what it is.
I am afraid of one thing:
If I go back to him,
and I then have a child...
I won't file a divorce with a child.
Because I can't let go of a child.
I wouldn't want my child's future
to turn out like mine.
As a grown up woman,
think of how to fix the problem.
And how you can adjust yourself.
Try to accept him
and the situation as it is
rather than destroying it.
It takes a while for the judge to decide.
Are you okay with her staying here?
I have no problem with it.
Until her divorce is finalized,
she can stay here.
Yes, she can stay.
Since she Is underage, I need
your permission for her to stay here.
Sure.
Right here.
When you go through a divorce,
it's hard to get on your feet again.
What's your choice now?
I want to study and be somebody.
-For real?
-Yes, seriously.
I want to impress everyone
with my actions.
-Are you sure?
-I'm positive.
Promise?
I promise for real.
Sara, I want to leave
this messaqe to thank you!
Foaay I noticed construction
happening all over the village.
They say It's for fuel lines.
You've really made us all happy!
Come over this way.
The gas lines have to be finished
IN one month.
Dear Villagers!
Attention, please!
This is an important announcement.
Many households lack
a certificate or ownership.
Without it, you won to be eligible
to receive fuel services.
You must have housing docurmentation.
For any questions you can visit Ms. Sara.
Tell people to hand In
their old gas cylinders.
Ms. Sara!
-Hello, how are you?
-Good, come In.
-Is your gas connected?
-No, not yet.
Have you started laying the gas line?
Yes.
We're setting it up everywhere.
We don't have it yet.
-Who is the owner of the house?
-My husband.
It won't work.
Because he doesn't have
the official documents to prove it.
He won't be eligible.
Will he give you house ownership?
He won't agree.
What should we do?
I can help your husband
with the paperwork,
If he shares ownership with you.
I'll make a note to remember.
It will work if he is willing.
-We can make this work.
-Thank you.
Please, speak to my husband about this.
Okay, no problem.
Goodbye.
Sara...
I saw you Installing gas lines
in the alleyways.
Why won't you bring one to my house?
Uncle Shami, I've already told you.
You first need to have
official housing documentation.
I don't have official ones.
I'll help you with the papers,
If you share ownership with your wife.
I can't do that.
Have you ever heard of male elders
sharing house ownership with their wives?
Yes, at least 60 households
did exactly that recently.
It won't work. I won't do this.
I don't want the share.
Why not?
It's not a common thing to do.
It's okay If it's also under your name.
You're also contributing a lot
by working in the home,
and raising your children.
Based on our country's law,
if your husband passes,
as his wife, you won't inherit much.
After a long married life,
I don't want to cause conflict.
It won't cause you any trouble.
The gas Is an excuse to give you
half of the rights to the house.
I don't know.
It will be just fine.
This is Iran, and we're here.
This Is our village.
This Is the main road
and the cross street.
Would you like to ride around
on a motorcycle?
That would be a dream.
Push the gas!
Go on.
You gotta make it work, come on.
Be strong! Press with strength!
Not timidly, with strength!
Look, Fereshteh. I told you.
You must repeat it until you learn.
Okay? Watch how I do it.
Press that down.
Okay, take this. Hold that down.
When you're ready,
hit the gas without fear!
Yes, release the clutch.
Go!
Go this way, go.
Hit the gas! No fear!
I got stuck there, sorry.
What for?
I thought you'd be mad
that I broke the motorcycle.
No worries, It happens.
A motorcycle Is like a human.
It faces hardship sometimes.
Life is like that too.
I asked my Mom how I was born.
She said you delivered me.
I like that you delivered me.
I want to be like you.
Become a midwife
and deliver babies.
Fereshteh, I've delivered 400 kids.
I've stayed up so many nights.
Unable to sleep.
They'd knock on my door
at midnight, and I'd have to go.
I'd stay up until sunrise.
Sometimes even until the next sunset.
Did you ride a motorcycle
when you came to deliver me?
Yeah, I came with my motorcycle.
I rode the motorcycle...
I parked It In your backyard
and you were born in the morning.
When I ride,
I feel like I can do anything.
Did you see how well you ride?
I couldn't believe I was riding.
-Really?
-I learned so quickly.
You see?
-I am riding iln my mind right now.
-Really?
You rode really well.
Hereby, Shamsollah Kordi, son of...
-Son of?
-Qanbarali.
Qanbarali...
residing in the village of Bazin...
allocate 200 square meters
from my residential property...
Allocate half of it...
to my wife, Ms. Golbano...
Still writing?
It only took him
ten cups of tea to decide.
Here.
Uncle Shami, please sign here.
-Do you have an inkpad?
-I think so.
Thank you.
Now I'm afraid that my wife
will build a wall
IN the Middle of the house.
Don't worry. I'm glad you signed.
Now there are 100 villagers
who share the ownership of their land.
We put this here and then...
wait for a while.
Like we're here to...
Let's say that's the fetus, okay?
From the center here,
IS a six month pregnancy.
Two centimeters above IS seven months,
two centimeters above IS nine months,
two more above Is eight months.
Meaning that until eight months
It goes up,
and in the ninth month it goes down.
Oh, the uterus opens.
No, it'll come towards the pelvis.
That's not exactly right!
I'm just trying.
Hold on to the feet...
Tap its back and it'll cry.
Not like that.
You have to hold it like this.
Look, like this.
Tap like this.
God bless your child!
We'll make a circular park here.
We will install playground equipment here.
It'll be a circular park.
Wouldn't that be nice?
Let's grade the land with the bulldozers.
From now on,
encourage your kids to study.
They won't have any support,
and it will be unfortunate.
You have no lands to pass on to them.
Their only way to survive is to study.
I want my daughter to study.
Zahra says, I feel sorry for you.
You work nonstop at home.
She's right!
She doesn't want to turn out like me.
-Zahra will study.
- I want her to.
Who do you wish to become?
Not sure, either a nurse or a dentist.
A doctor or a nurse.
Always aim for the best.
If not all,
half of your dreams will come true.
You're like a role model to me,
making me aware.
Your advice
helps me decide about my future.
Zahra looks up to you,
she rides a motorcycle.
No way!
How come I haven't seen you?
I'm really happy to hear that.
You're the future Sara!
Can you give me a ride?
-Yes.
-Seriously?
Let's plan a motorcycle ride together.
Can you ride too?
In the backyard, but I always fall.
-What about you?
-We practice sometimes.
Who wants to join me
for a motorcycle ride?
-Me!
-Me too!
Great, and you?
I will get your parents' permission.
-Does your motorcycle work?
-We'll fix it.
Give me a high five!
You guys just follow my car.
Inside and outside of the village.
Let's cover you up
SO you are safe in the village.
Now you're not recognizable.
-Do you recognize me?
-Can you tell who I am?
All set, except for sunglasses.
Are we going for a robbery or motor ride?
This feels great!
It's so beautiful out here.
Let's pass quickly.
Cover up your face.
Let's just hope no one recognizes us.
Watch out for the big car.
The boys are following us.
Uncle is coming after us.
-Who let you ride?
-You gave me permission!
Don't hit her!
-Get going!
-I am going.
Stop! Don't hit her!
Get the hell out of here!
Don't hit!
Come sit in my car.
No, I'll take her.
Come over here.
Don't you hit her again.
It's okay, don't worry.
To do something unconventional,
sometimes there are consequences.
That's your uncle.
It's none of his business.
Your parents let you ride.
Who's that?
Zahra's uncle is coming.
Go Inside.
Farzi, get in the car. We need to talk.
We used to be playmates, classmates!
We grew up together, Farzi.
I used to take my father's motorcycle
and run away.
-You're different.
-I am no different.
- I used to do that all the time!
-It was different then.
It was the same.
It's okay to punish a girl sometimes.
No, you shouldn't have hit her.
She shouldn"t be out. That's all.
She was having a good time,
you shouldn't have hit her.
Men used to say,
"Give girls shoes, but not paths.
Alright, just don't hit her.
Ms. Sara,
bring the seaI
Io the other council mem ers.
Some are complaining
to stamp their documents.
You must return the seal today.
I Knew you weren't qoing
fo be able to handle this.
Are you after the seal?
SO you are after power.
The seal is mine, there's no question.
Let go of the stamp.
I won't give the stamp to anybody:.
Goodbye.
What does that mean?
Aren't you here to serve the village?
I won't give it up.
Now is not the time--
That's it.
- This is endless--
The age of elders deciding is over.
No more favoritism
for any party or family.
So, you're looking for power.
Alright then, if you want to fight...
I will quit my position
if I don't get the seal!
Even better.
Quitting is better
than you having the stamp.
Fine!
I thought of you differently.
-It's not for you to decide.
-Yes, it Is.
I got the most votes,
and the seal Is mine.
-No, other council members should agree.
-Alright, whatever.
Fine.
I'll show you all.
Sara, don't fight over nonsense.
I know what you're after.
-Get out of here.
-What's happening, Sister?
You want to legalize your wrongdoing.
I know all the illegal stuff you've done!
Calm down, Sister.
I have the right to take the seal,
and everyone knows it.
They're worried they can"t stamp
their illegal documents.
-Cut the nonsense.
-That's what they're after.
You'd better leave now.
Shame on you!
You'd better go too.
Do you like fighting with everyone?
Brother, they've had problems with me
from the beginning.
Don't fight.
He started the argument-
telling me that I'm only after power.
What happened to the circle?
Why did you change the circle to a square?
What do you mean?
This is how a park should look like.
I calculated it to be a 30 meter circle.
The street has to have a shape.
It has to work with the dimensions
of the street.
-Why did you ruin that route?
-To make it better.
How many meters?
I calculated the sides and...
there will be a pond in the center.
Mr. Engineer,
from that corner onwards
needs to be redone.
It doesn't work.
Stop, Mohammad!
Stop, brother!
Look, Mr. Engineer.
You see that crooked path?
It has to go straight to the other side.
-No need for that.
-Stop!
-We can't do this.
- don't feel like arguing.
You do as I tell you.
What do you do with the light pole?
It stays there.
-It'll cause accidents.
-No, It won't.
-It won"t work!
-Yes, it will.
You can't make things up.
Whatever I do, you change.
I make a circle,
you change it to a square.
You can't keep doing this!
I asked you to make a circle over here.
-What are you basing this on?
-It's a square!
What?
It has to have a shape.
-What's that measurement?
-Twelve meters.
Why did you do that??
-I'm asking you to take care of that.
-No problem.
Do you have any chalk to make a mark?
Bring It over.
He thinks I'll give In
just because he's my brother.
Some men in the village are complaining,
"We can't go to this woman's house
at night to stamp documents.
I have daytime office hours.
I only work at night if it's urgent.
They're making excuses.
You should cooperate.
I don't like their behavior.
They've been humiliating me from day one.
So many rulers
have had power and then lost it.
So many village chiefs...
the lords and their houses...
Nothing is left of them, all gone.
Sorry if my words bothered you.
-You understand what I mean?
-No worries.
Take care.
Is my foot pain related to my kidney?
I feel pain from here all the way down.
No, it has nothing to do with the kidney.
You applied pressure to your back.
Or my weight?
Could be stress related.
I think you're mentally exhausted.
You are beginning to harm yourself.
You should have a lighter workload.
Either do less council work...
or rest for a little while.
You might even want to consider
quitting the council.
Your health is far more important.
These are some pills
and tests for you to take.
Ms. Sara...
You have a letter from the court
A complaint has been filed against you.
You must present yourself to the court.
The interrogator
asked me questions that I adian to expect
Why did you divorce your husband?
Why do women visit your home ?
Why do you wear men's clothing?
Why isn't your vorce feminine?
I Ask why I am here.
The interrogator says that the complaint
IS for operating a dishonorable house.
I had no idea
where the accusations came from.
They gave me a letter to go see
a medaical expert witness.
I go and ask why I am brought there.
They say for a sex change,
from female fto male.
I Ask why?
They say It's for your own good.
I've never been this upset
In my entire lite.
They have questioned my iaentity.
They want to change me.
They want me to be somebody I am not
They've searched Sara's house for hours.
I Wonder why she's single.
No wonder she's In trouble.
A woman should live
either with her father or her husband.
Shahverdi.
How old are you?
Forty three.
Do you know why you're here?
It's about my gender identity.
My house has been searched for hours.
Based on the Judge's request,
to assess your real identity
we must conduct some tests.
I'm comfortable with my gender.
Why do women come to your place?
Is this a crime??
Of course If it's with intention.
This can't be the reason why
I can't support others.
Let's say I help a woman study.
How is this a crime?
Look, If you are really a woman,
you should be considerate
of the rules and traditions.
In our society, a woman
can't just do anything she wants.
You mean If I were a man,
I could do anything.
But because I'm a woman, I can't.
We're not here to argue.
We will conduct some tests...
The rest is up to the judge to decide.
We will follow the rules.
My uncle came,
wanting to take me with him.
But I said, only my parents
are allowed to take me.
I'm worried that my uncle will hit me.
I"m SO anxious.
They're here.
Don't worry, he can't hurt you here.
Yes. How are you, Hossein?
Fereshteh, let's go.
Where?
Home.
I want to stay here.
It's not up to you.
You re taking her, but you can't hit her.
No, I won't.
Let me be clear.
Her father wants her back home.
Just come in for a second.
Mr. Farhad, close the door and come In.
Okay, come In.
Weren't you the one who decided
that she could stay here?
Well, the family made other decisions.
I'm sick, I know nothing.
Leaving here, I don't know
if it'll be for better or worse.
Let's go, your uncle is waiting.
At least have dinner before leaving.
No, thanks.
Goodnight.
I wish my dad was here.
He would hold my hands tightly.
Then he'd say...
'Don't worry, my daughter.
It'll be alright.
Auntie Sara!
This is for you.
You're Cordially Invited to
Zahra's Wedding
Sara, you came to our school
and spoke to the girls.
They promised not to get married young,
and to study instead.
This person is married.
She's also married.
Same with this one.
She's also gone.
Seven, eight...
nine, ten...
eleven...
twelve, thirteen, fourteen...
fifteen, sixteen...
Unfortunately, there's only five left.
Yes, they're all married now.
Ms. Shahveray...
The court has made Its final decrsion.
Based on the test results,
sex change surgery iS not needed.
But there are some things
you should consider.
I go to the judge.
The judge says,
You don't need a sex change surgery.
'But don't help other women too much.
Mind your own business.
I suggest you get married soon
fo avoid getting into trouble.
The judge decides to close my case.
They did everything they could
to stop me from moving forward in life.
All of this feels like a game.
Where is the justice
for all these false accusations?
Who will heal this pain?
I was exhausted for a while.
Then I thought that if I don't do anything,
nothing will ever change.
I may have wanted big changes,
but now I know it demands more patience.
Sometimes a small step ls enough.
I Spoke to the parents of the girls
who are not married yet.
We planned a motorcycle ride.
This time I asked the parents to join.
Ready to go?
You two stay here.
And you, come forward.
It's not a competition.
We're all riding together.
Great!
Ready?