2025’s Must-See Film: An Engaging Review and Summary of ‘The Sealed Soil’ by Roger Ebert

Marva Nabili’s 1977 film, “The Sealed Soil,” is a landmark in Iranian cinema as the first feature made by a woman. For years, it remained hard to find, but its recent restoration by the UCLA Film and Television Archive has introduced this powerful film to new audiences. More than just a piece of history, “The Sealed Soil” offers a deep dive into its protagonist’s life, showcasing the struggles faced by women under a specific cultural regime.

As a graduate thesis film, it was created on a low budget, yet the emotional weight it carries is immense. The story follows Rooy-Bekheir, an 18-year-old woman from a small village. Despite being at the age when many get married, Rooy is uninterested. Her daily life revolves around being obedient to her family, a routine that feels increasingly suffocating. Set during the reign of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the film captures a period when Iran was slowly modernizing, yet true freedom remained elusive for women.

Rooy’s existence reflects a form of freedom that’s relative. She experiences pressure both from her family and society, showing how challenging life can be under a patriarchal system. The film presents her struggles quietly, highlighting her depression through subtle actions and expressions, rather than dialogue. For instance, while fetching branches by the river—a chore she dreads—it’s apparent she finds solace in the solitude, a stark contrast to her home life.

The plot thickens when the village mayor delivers news that the local agriculture corporation plans to displace families. This presents a financial dilemma for Rooy’s family. They face a difficult choice: accept the offered compensation for their land or push Rooy into a marriage agreement for a dowry, further exposing her limited options. The opening offer includes a dowry of 500 Tomans along with various household goods, illustrating how traditional values still hold sway despite the changes in society.

One of the most poignant moments comes when the mayor pressures Rooy to marry. He frames it as her choice, but his perspective reveals the deep-rooted cultural expectations. He points out that her mother was married at her age, emphasizing the contrast between past and present, yet the fundamental pressures remain unchanged. After the mayor’s visit, Rooy is left alone, rolling up the throw rug, symbolizing her ongoing responsibilities and the societal expectations placed upon her.

The film exemplifies what’s now termed “Slow Cinema,” where the pacing allows viewers to truly engage with the characters’ lives. Those used to fast-paced films may find it challenging to adjust. The early scenes are deliberately mundane, mirroring Rooy’s own repetitive existence. But as the story unfolds, it transforms into a compelling reflection of her inner strength and determination.

As viewers, we witness Rooy facing her dilemmas, making her journey resonate. When she walks alone down a road, the music swells, pulling us in. The simplicity of the storytelling belies the depth of the experience. Viewers often come away with a sense of truth that’s hard to find in many films. “The Sealed Soil” reminds us of the quiet struggles women face and the strength they embody, even in the most ordinary circumstances.

Recent studies show that films like this are crucial for understanding gender issues worldwide. According to a survey from the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, women filmmakers still tell stories that engage with societal challenges in unique ways. “The Sealed Soil” is a prime example of how cinema can unveil the complexities of cultural narratives and advocate for change. The film remains a testament to resilience and a reminder of the ongoing fight for women’s rights, both in Iran and beyond.

For those looking to deepen their knowledge of gender representation in film, resources such as the [Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media](https://seejane.org) provide valuable insights. They focus on increasing representation and showcasing how stories can inspire and create awareness around important issues.

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