sonita

Sonita is a 2015 documentary film directed by Rokhsareh Ghaem Maghami. The film follows Sonita Alizadeh, a young Afghan refugee living in the Tehran suburb of Gheshlagh, Iran. Sonita dreams of becoming a rapper but faces significant obstacles, including poverty and the threat of a forced marriage arranged by her mother.

The documentary details Sonita's struggles as she works multiple jobs to support herself and her family while secretly pursuing her musical ambitions. She uses her rap lyrics to express her frustrations with societal pressures, particularly the tradition of child brides, and to advocate for girls' education and rights. The film captures her efforts to raise money for a music video, which she hopes will become a symbol of her defiance and a way to gain international attention for her cause.

Ghaem Maghami's presence as a filmmaker within the narrative adds another layer to the story, as she becomes personally invested in Sonita's well-being, even to the point of offering financial assistance that blurs the lines of traditional documentary filmmaking. The film highlights the intersection of art, activism, and personal struggle, showcasing Sonita's resilience and her determination to forge her own path despite cultural and economic barriers. Sonita premiered at the International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam and received critical acclaim for its intimate portrayal of a young artist's fight for freedom and self-expression.