Bread & Roses Parents Guide and Age Rating:
The documentary Bread & Roses brings to light the harsh realities faced by women in Afghanistan after the Taliban regained control of the country in 2021. Directed by Sahra Mani, this film chronicles the struggles of three brave Afghan women as they fight for their basic rights to education, work, and freedom of movement, which were stripped away by the Taliban’s return to power. Through their personal stories and the broader context of women’s resistance, Bread & Roses highlights the courage and determination of Afghan women in the face of oppression.
Bread & Roses Age Rating:
The documentary Bread & Roses has received a 15 rating, meaning it is deemed suitable for viewers aged 15 and older. This rating is primarily due to the film’s mature themes, emotional intensity, and depictions of real-life violence and oppression faced by women under Taliban rule in Afghanistan.
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Reasons for the Age Rating:
- Mature Themes
Bread & Roses explores the severe restrictions imposed on women in Afghanistan after the Taliban’s resurgence in 2021. Issues like forced confinement, loss of educational and work rights, and systemic gender-based oppression are central to the narrative. These themes, while important, are complex and emotionally heavy, requiring a level of maturity to process. - Scenes of Violence and Threats
The film includes footage of protests where women are met with violent crackdowns by the Taliban, including the use of water cannons and tear gas. Additionally, there are chilling moments where Taliban fighters openly threaten women with death for speaking out. Such scenes, though factual, are intense and potentially distressing for younger audiences. - Depictions of Torture and Imprisonment
One of the central figures, Zahra, is arrested and tortured for her activism. These scenes, though not overly graphic, convey the harsh realities of her suffering and highlight the physical and psychological toll of living under such oppressive conditions. - Psychological and Emotional Impact
The film captures the deep emotional struggles of women whose lives have been upended. Sharifa’s tedious isolation, Zahra’s courage in the face of persecution, and Taranom’s exile carry significant emotional weight. The ongoing fear and trauma depicted may be too overwhelming for younger viewers. - Educational Yet Challenging Content
While the film provides valuable insight into human rights issues, the gravity of its content requires an audience capable of critically engaging with the material. Viewers need the maturity to understand the context without being overwhelmed by its harsh realities.
Details:
| Title | Bread & Roses |
|---|---|
| Release Date | November 22, 2024 |
| Director | Sahra Mani |
| Tagline | A fight for women’s rights after the Taliban’s resurgence in Kabul. |
| Genre | Documentary |
| Language | Pashtu |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Also Known As | Chleba i róż |
| Production Company | Excellent Cadaver |
| Distributed By | Apple TV+ |
| Runtime | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Certificate | 15 |
Main Cast:
| Role | Description |
|---|---|
| Sharifa | A former government employee now confined to a tedious life indoors. |
| Zahra | A dentist turned activist who faces arrest and torture for her efforts. |
| Taranom | An activist exiled to Pakistan, living as a refugee. |
Storyline:
“Bread & Roses” follows the lives of three Afghan women during a pivotal moment in Afghanistan’s history. After the Taliban’s resurgence in 2021, women’s rights were stripped away, barring them from education beyond sixth grade, employment, and even freedom of movement without male accompaniment.
Sharifa, a former government employee, is forced to abandon her career and live a restricted life indoors. Zahra, a dentist, turns her focus to activism, organizing efforts from her former workplace. However, her courage leads to arrest and brutal torture by Taliban forces. Taranom, another activist, faces exile and flees to Pakistan, becoming a refugee.
The documentary captures the broader struggles of Afghan women, including protests against school closures where women chant for “work, bread, and education.” These demonstrations are met with violent crackdowns, including water cannons and tear gas. Harrowing footage reveals the Taliban’s brutality, including threats to kill detained women who dare to speak out. Even young girls in elementary and middle schools are shown chanting anti-Taliban messages.
Though the documentary offers no conclusive resolution to the ongoing conflict, it serves as a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of Afghan women in their fight for basic human rights.