The main character Rafina grapples with accepting a life defined for her versus pursuing a life that she defines for herself. Looking at this film with a feminist sensibility, you recognise that freedom of choice is at the core of this story and freedom of choice is what links multiple forms of feminism for women across the globe. Women worldwide deliberate daily between femininity, masculinity, career, independence, marriage, and family.
Women are also choosing between constructions of womanhood that are assigned to them versus those that are creatively woven by them. Even though I live in a societal context that is often depicted as promoting freedom I have struggled with making similar life decisions. This film motivates us to examine the ways in which people, women and men, live in ways that limit human choice and perpetuate the narrow definitions that culture holds for women. One of the most important elements in this film is the portrayal of the lead characters.
They are complex, multi-dimensional and at times fraught with contradictions. It was empowering to see Rafina embody both femininity and strength, two characteristics that are often seen as oppositional. She is beautiful and nurturing, yet tenacious and assertive in sticking to the pursuit of her aspirations.
It becomes evident as the film progresses that she is not simply striving for her own freedom, but she is also a champion for the unfulfilled dreams of other women. Furthermore, she uses a career in modeling as the means through which to achieve liberation โ which can seem somewhat conflicting as some might characterise this profession as adding to the oppression of women through objectification.
However, I beg to differ and offer the reminder that freedom is once again about choice. About the reviewer. Tiffany L. Dr Tiffany L. Currently, she is a full time professor at Montclair State University in New Jersey with area of expertise in family relationships, gender issues and adolescent development.
