About 'A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness'

'A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness' is an 2016 Oscar-winning documentary directed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy. This riveting film explores the deeply rooted customs and traditions behind honour killings in Pakistan, centred around the true-life story of a young woman named Saba who survived an attempted honour killing by her own family.

After being shot and thrown into a river for eloping with a man not approved by her family, Saba survives and must navigate a complex system of social and legal obstacles to bring her attackers to justice. However, she comes under pressure from community elders and religious leaders to forgive her family and drop the case, highlighting the societal demands and barriers that victims often face.

Making / Production

The film was directed and produced by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy under the banner of SOC Films and HBO Documentary Films. It was widely filmed in Punjab, Pakistan. The director's previous works on social issues in Pakistan lent them an in-depth understanding of the cultural landscape and the community's reaction to honour killings, which was critical in the making of this film. Additionally, she worked closely with local resources to ensure Saba's safety throughout the filmmaking process.

Actors

• Saba: As herself, Saba showed immense courage and resilience in sharing her story with the world. Her raw and truthful depiction of events lent an authentic and emotional touch to the film.
• Saba's Husband Qaiser: Also appearing as himself, Qaiser's presence in the film and his support for Saba adds another layer to the narrative.
• Other Family Members: Saba's family members, including her father and uncle who attempted to kill her in the name of honour, were also part of the documentary, adding a disturbing realistic portrayal of ingrained cultural norms.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness is the second Oscar-winning documentary short subject by Pakistani filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy.
• The film inspired discussions that led to changes in Pakistan's anti-honour killing laws, proving its influential impact.

Awards

The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary (Short Subject) at the 88th Academy Awards, adding another feather to director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy's cap, who had previously won an Oscar for her documentary 'Saving Face' (2012).

Quotes

• "This is what happens when determined women get together" - Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy's acceptance speech at the Oscars.

Music, Soundtrack

• Given the documentary nature of the film, there isn't a traditional soundtrack. Ambient sounds were utilized to shape the film's realistic atmosphere.