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Noora Niasari’s debut feature film, Shayda, offers a captivating and authentic portrayal of a mother and daughter finding strength in a women’s shelter. The tension steadily rises throughout the film, refusing to take the easy way out.
Zar Amir Ebrahimi’s flawless performance as Shayda, a woman escaping an abusive marriage, anchors the narrative. The film’s opening scene, where the fear of losing her child to her husband is palpable, and sets the stage for a compelling story.
Set in 1995 during Persian New Year, the film avoids heavy-handed symbolism. Niasari focuses on her characters, making the women’s shelter feel like a backdrop, and the muted color palette highlights the humanity of the story. Small moments, like a phone call from Shayda’s mother, shed light on the broader issue of domestic violence. Shayda delves into a subject often overlooked in Australian cinema.
The film’s personal narrative is its strength, showcasing the experiences of many women. Zar Amir Ebrahimi’s performance is a standout, exuding both strength and vulnerability.
The aspect ratio adds intensity to the drama, and Sherwin Akbarzadeh’s cinematography captures Ebrahimi’s emotions. Niasari’s willingness to let scenes breathe turns images into powerful moments. Shayda is an impressive achievement, establishing Noora Niasari as a promising voice in Australian cinema.
Shayda is in cinemas October 5th.
