MOVIE REVIEW
Bread & Roses
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 30m
Director(s): Sahra Mani
Where To Watch: available on Apple TV+ November 22, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Sahra Mani's BREAD & ROSES serves as a stark chronicle of the chaos unleashed by the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan, casting a searing light on the altered lives of Zahra, Taranom, and Sharifa. This documentary dissects the fabric of Afghan society, unraveling the threads of systemic challenges that resonate through the experiences of these three women at a critical juncture of political upheaval.

BREAD & ROSES does not shy away from plunging into the harsh new reality imposed by the Taliban’s rule. Zahra, who once practiced dentistry, now leverages her shuttered clinic as a covert hub for activism. Taranom, isolated in a safe house far from the community she once called home, struggles with her stark new existence. Sharifa’s life, confined within her home's walls, mirrors the shrinking sphere women occupy in both public and private sectors under oppressive regimes.

The documentary’s gritty visual style mirrors the raw, turbulent context it portrays, pulling the audience into intimate proximity with its subjects. Mani's direction captures the defiant spark within these women amidst their vulnerability. The camera acts as a silent witness to both their moments of despair and their acts of quiet resistance, illustrating the profound emotional and psychological toll of their fight.

BREAD & ROSES crafts a tale of resistance within its narrative core. With their steadfast advocacy, Zahra and Taranom’s everyday rebellions assert their unyielding spirit against attempts to erase their identities. These acts, though small, are potent symbols of defiance, weaving a larger story of resilience against systemic oppression.

BREAD & ROSES transcends its narrative to beckon a call to action. It challenges viewers to reflect on their liberties in contrast to the stark injustices portrayed, spurring a broader discourse on the implications of the Taliban's policies on women’s rights globally. The film’s segmented storytelling amplifies the urgency of the issues, pushing audiences toward empathy and action.

In focusing her lens on the severe and often absurd restrictions imposed by the Taliban, such as the silencing of women’s voices in public arenas, Mani underscores the stark contrast between oppressive policies and the indomitable courage of Afghan women striving for normalcy and autonomy amidst peril.

The film extends beyond individual stories to paint a broader picture of Afghanistan's socio-economic landscape. Amidst rapid population growth and economic challenges, BREAD & ROSES explores the ripple effects of political decisions on personal and communal lives, offering a comprehensive look at the intersections between governance and daily existence.

BREAD & ROSES is a rallying cry for action and a historical document of Afghan women's tenacity and resistance. It captures their struggles and mobilizes support for gender equality, showcasing the profound impact of documentary filmmaking as a catalyst for social change.

Watching BREAD & ROSES is a transformative experience. Designed to educate and incite, the film is a testament to the power of cinema to mobilize and inspire. Its lasting impact beckons viewers to engage with the ongoing human rights narrative and champion the cause of justice and equality well beyond the film’s runtime.

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[photo courtesy of APPLE TV+]

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