Cutting Through Rocks Review: A Trailblazing Woman’s Struggle for Gendered Equality in this Small Iranian Village

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Real change starts with education. Once people realize their own power, progress often follows, at least to a large extent. The documentary follows Sara Shahverdi, the first woman elected to the village council in a small Iranian community, as profiled by directors Sara Khaki and Mohammadreza Eyni. While some men see Shahverdi as a threat linked to Western ideals, the women – and particularly young girls – view her as an inspiring example of positive change.

Filmmakers Khaki and Eyni were given a close look at the life of Shahverdi and the people she serves. The film starts with Shahverdi’s campaign for office, which inspired many women – and some young men – to vote for the first time. While some community conservatives cautioned her against running, Shahverdi ultimately won because she was underestimated – seen as an eccentric but harmless neighbor. The film highlights how simply having a genuine desire to represent the people can be enough to achieve political influence.

Cutting Through Rocks is a Film of Inspiration Through the Power of Struggle

Once in office, she struggles to implement her plans for change, even basic improvements like fixing doors. This woman is a strong advocate for women’s rights, believing in the power of education and even motorcycle riding. She’s also divorced and actively works to end child marriages, a cause that creates significant opposition. The film focuses on her taking in a young girl trying to escape a marriage to a much older man – twenty-three years her senior – and the resulting family conflicts and potential for violence that follow.

I find Shahverdi absolutely captivating, and I think she’d make an incredible documentary subject. She’s just so full of life – charismatic, confident, and with a wonderfully sharp wit. At 37, she’s truly a symbol of the changes happening in Iran, and her story feels like a universal fight for women to be treated equally. But what really strikes me is that she appeals to everyone – not just women. I’ve heard men say they’re drawn to her practical plans for real change. People in this small village keep saying ‘the current council hasn’t done anything,’ and it really highlights how this issue of inaction and bureaucracy exists everywhere in the world.

What really struck me about this film is how it portrays the impact on young girls. There’s this powerful scene where Shahverdi speaks to a class, trying to warn them about the dangers of child marriage. It’s heartbreaking because, by the end, it seems like most haven’t listened. But I don’t see that as a failure at all. Seeing these girls inspired to chase their own dreams – wanting to ride motorcycles or become doctors – that’s amazing! The title, Cutting Through Rocks, seems to hint at how hard it is to actually make a difference, but the film shows that change is possible. It all comes down to how you try to make that change, and who you’re trying to reach. Suddenly, these girls can see a future for themselves, and it makes you wonder who they will inspire next. It’s really hopeful.

Cutting Through Rocks at New York City’s Film Forum on November 21st before expanding to select cities on December 5th.

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2025-11-21 23:19