Unveiling ‘Cutting Through Rocks’: A Captivating Film Review by Eye For Film

Not all heroes wear capes. In the case of Sara Shahverdi, she dons homemade motorcycle gear. Living in rural Iran, Sara, a former midwife, is not just delivering babies but also quietly challenging the patriarchy. Filmmakers Sara Khaki and Mohammadreza Eyni spent seven years following her journey as she aims to become the first female councillor from her village.

Sara’s revolution starts at home. Her father defied cultural norms by teaching her practical skills he would normally pass to sons. Even after he passed away when she was just 16, his lessons stayed with her, fueling her feminist spirit. This determination becomes evident when her younger brothers try to disinherit her sisters—a move that Sara fiercely opposes, reflecting her commitment to family and justice.

As she campaigns for office, Sara faces doubts from some, like the man who tells her he doesn’t believe she can succeed. Yet, she also gains respect, particularly from the younger generation. During her campaign, she encourages women to recognize their rights, often seen riding her bike through picturesque landscapes that mirror the vastness of her dreams.

For Sara, winning office is just part of a larger struggle. Each success leads to the next challenge, and she faces opposition at every turn. In addition to her political focus, she visits schools, advocating against child marriage and empowering young girls to fight for their rights. One significant relationship develops with a teenager named Feresteh, who seeks refuge with Sara while navigating her own marital issues.

Sara’s journey isn’t without risk. The filmmakers capture the tension as her local efforts attract attention, and she soon finds herself under scrutiny from state authorities. While the threats are real, there’s a powerful undercurrent of hope as more people begin to take notice of her bravery.

In today’s context, women’s rights issues are more prominent than ever. According to a recent report by the World Economic Forum, it will take over 130 years to close the global gender gap. This highlights the importance of voices like Sara’s. With social media buzzing about women’s empowerment, her story resonates not just in Iran, but globally, encouraging others to stand up and make a change.

Khaki and Eyni paint a portrait of resilience and courage that goes beyond mere activism. Sara’s story is a reminder that progress, while challenging, is possible through determination and unity.

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