Nadia Fall’s debut feature film “Brides” takes a fresh approach to a controversial topic, focusing on the power of teenage friendship rather than the sensationalized aspects of terrorism. The film follows two British Muslim schoolgirls, Muna and Doe, as they leave their troubled home lives and embark on a journey to Syria to join ISIS. Fall emphasizes that the film is not a deliberate provocation but an exploration of the complexities of adolescence and the need to belong.
Through flashbacks and a non-linear narrative, “Brides” delves into the girls’ backstories, revealing the factors that contribute to their feelings of alienation, such as Islamophobia and family disruptions. Safiyya Ingar and Ebada Hassan deliver compelling performances as Muna and Doe, portraying relatable characters who make risky decisions driven by their young and impressionable minds. The film’s empathetic approach allows the audience to understand the girls’ unique perspectives and the influence of the internet on their lives.
Teenage friendship and self-discovery
Fall, along with screenwriter Suhayla El-Bushra and producer Nicky Bentham, crafts a story rooted in understanding, highlighting the universal themes of teenage friendship and the quest for belonging. The director relates to the characters on a personal level, admitting that elements of her own teenage experiences are reflected in Muna and Doe’s story.
“Everything I do in theater and on screen is all about reminding us that we’ve got more in common than we’ve got differences,” Fall asserts. She believes that empathy is crucial, suggesting that while viewers may not share the same backgrounds as the characters, the essence of their journey will resonate with many. Brides” is set to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, offering a heartfelt and nuanced look at adolescence, friendship, and self-discovery amid societal pressures and personal challenges.
The film promises to spark conversations and challenge preconceptions, inviting audiences to see beyond the headlines and connect with the human stories at its core.