Brides

Two British teenagers attempt to travel to Syria in this compassionate and thought-provoking road film, inspired by a true story.

Two British schoolgirls seek new lives in acclaimed theatre director and playwright Nadia Fall’s emotive first feature. Best friends Doe and Muna face a constant barrage of racism at school and bullying at home. But through it all they have each other. Disillusioned and desperate, they set out on a long and risky cross-country journey to reach a community they think will appreciate them.

Set in 2014, a year before East London schoolgirl Shamima Begum and her two friends fled to Syria, Fall’s empathetic and spirited film, crafted with screenwriter Suhayla El-Bushra, fully embraces the teenagers’ perspectives, intricately exploring girlhood, faith and friendship as it attempts to excavate the roots of radicalisation. Newcomer Ebada Hassan and Safiyya Ingar are outstanding, offering layered and truthful performances that convincingly convey an authentic, giddy friendship dynamic.