14A - Disturbing content, mature subject matter. Not recommended for children

Don’t let the ominous title of this documentary deter you from experiencing a truly inspiring film concerned with one of society’s most heinous crimes. In 2002, Mukhtar Mai, a woman from the Pakistani countryside, made world headlines. After the rumour spread that her 12-year-old brother was having a relationship with a woman from another clan, Mukhtar was gang-raped by order of the village council. Rather than cower and capitulate to shame, silence or even suicide, she spoke out and the six men were sentenced to death, although five of them were acquitted. Against the codes of her society, Mukhtar took her case to the Supreme Court and, undeterred, then opened a crisis centre for women, and two schools for girls in her village. Mukhtar only occasionally appears onscreen, while the observational camera concentrates on the stories of the fruits of her labour. Beautifully shot, this poignant tale is a testament to Mukhtar’s indefatigable spirit.

JC

Urdu with English subtitles

Please note: this is a FREE screening. Seats are subject to capacity.