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Becoming the pioneering anyone is a source of pride, but also a responsibility. Sara Shahverdi has carved her own way through a profoundly conservative village in countryside Iran. An experienced midwife who has brought into the world hundreds of babies, she has repeatedly done what is forbidden of women: to ride a motorcycle in public, to obtain a divorce and to live alone. Now she has undertaken another monumental task: to become the first female councillor to be voted in in this region of the country.

A Compelling Film

Remaining close to its subject, Sara Khaki and Mohammadreza Eyni’s energetic documentary showcases the raw intensity of Shahverdi’s impressive personality. An early scene shows her marching into the home of her brothers, insisting they give back the entitlements of inheritance rights to her sisters. The film extends from Shahverdi’s private issues to encompass the entire range of patriarchal oppression in her community. Here, schoolgirls as young as 12 are compelled into marriage, divorce is nearly unattainable to secure, and married women have little legal protection. Shahverdi’s decisive election victory is a beacon of hope, but even her celebrations are tainted by misogyny. Her male supporters can celebrate in the streets, while women have to film the celebrations through a closed window.

Stunning Changes

As councilwoman, Shahverdi brings stunning changes to the village; however, her backing of women and girls also provokes hateful claims about her sexuality that land her in court. Through these trials and tribulations, and moving between feelings of jubilation and hesitation, the documentary vividly conveys her endless exhaustion, where any progress is undone by new setbacks. While we might want to hear more about the particular cultural context of the Azeri Turk community to which Shahverdi is part of, this is a thought-provoking portrait of an remarkable spirit.

Breaking Barriers is at Bertha DocHouse, London, from 17 October.