'Shayda' Celebrates Female Resilience and Cultural Heritage

Noora Niasari's directorial debut receives critical acclaim for its nuanced portrayal of an Iranian woman's quest for independence.

'Shayda,' a film by Noora Niasari, tells the story of an Iranian woman and her daughter finding refuge in a women's shelter in Australia.
The film explores themes of domestic abuse, cultural heritage, and female resilience, set against the backdrop of the Persian New Year, Nowruz.
Critics praise 'Shayda' for its nuanced portrayal of the protagonist's struggle for independence and connection to her cultural roots.
Despite its subject matter, the film is celebrated for its hopeful tone and the strong performances of its cast.
'Shayda' cannot be shown in Iran due to its emancipatory themes but has been screened at approximately 50 festivals worldwide.