The struggle of two women to have the same rights as their male counterparts in a post-revolution Algeria attracted a large crowd as Hidden Beauties premiered on Monday at the Abu Dhabi Film Festival.
Directed by Nouri Bouzid, the drama takes place amid the political turmoil of the Arab Spring and demonstrates the difficulties faced by Zainab and Aisha as they fight for their beliefs against societal pressures.
Zainab’s fiancé pressures her to wear the Islamic veil while Hamza, Zainab’s brother and Aisha’s love interest, begs to differ. The sharp contrast between one woman under pressure to remove her veil as another resists wearing it condenses daily efforts, difficulties and details of family life and citizens in Algeria during the riots, in a tale in which Bouzid himself plays a role.
“I have not seen the movie on a big screen yet – so this night is a surprise for me. I am both optimistic and afraid,” said the 67-year-old Tunisian director. “I always make movies to which the events and characters I am close to. I spoke to girls in real life who had to deal with the problems which our stars face,” he added.
The film largely focuses on the concept of identity which should be should not be addressed under the political scene but under different circumstances, according to the film’s star Souhir Ben Amara.
“Cultural arenas such as theatres and cinemas should reflect on this concept and debate it. It is not politicians’ role to discuss issues such as the veil, which falls under the umbrella of identity,” said the Tunisian actress who plays the role Aisha, the veiled star.
The film follows the two friends as they remain unfazed by the chaos around them and grow in determination to eventually change the mentalities of their male-dominated society.
Don’t miss it
Catch Hidden Beauties on Thursday October 18 at 2pm, Vox Cinema 1, Marina Mall.
