Cutting Through Rocks: Iran women defying norms in Oscar-tipped film
BBC World
February 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
In a groundbreaking story captured in *Cutting Through Rocks*, Sara Shahverdi, a midwife and women’s rights activist from Iran’s Zanjan region, defies traditional norms by becoming the first woman elected to a village council. The documentary, which has been shortlisted for an Oscar, follows Shahverdi as she navigates challenges as a female leader in a male-dominated society. Riding a motorcycle through remote villages and delivering over 400 babies, Shahverdi symbolizes resilience and defiance against societal constraints. Her campaign to bring electricity and fuel to her village, coupled with her advocacy for gender equality and girls’ education, highlights the slow yet significant progress being made for women in Iran.
The film, directed by Sara Khaki and Mohammadreza Eyni, offers a unique视角 on Shahverdi’s journey. It captures her speech at a packed hall of 1,500 men, where she calls for an end to child marriage and fights for co-ownership of land between genders—a radical idea in Iran. The documentary also explores personal struggles, such as when Shahverdi faces legal scrutiny after being accused of “dishonoring” her home by hosting women who challenge traditional norms. These scenes underscore the societal pressure women face in Iran but also showcase Shahverdi’s unwavering determination to push for change.
Khaki and Eyni’s collaboration adds another layer to the story. While filming, they bonded with Shahverdi over shared experiences of navigating male-dominated spaces. Their partnership, which eventually led to their marriage, reflects the dual narratives at play: one of political and social progress in Iran
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/21/2026