Saving Face

About Saving Face

Saving Face is a documentary film, released in 2012. Directed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy and Daniel Junge, the movie provides an insightful exploration into the lives of victims of acid attacks in Pakistan. These women undergo harrowing pain and are ostracized by societal norms. In the face of such adversity, the brave narrative of a plastic surgeon, Dr. Mohammad Jawad, is explored who provides these victims with reconstructive surgery and hope.

Making / Production

The film was produced by Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy and Daniel Junge and it was created under the banner of SOC Films and JungeFilm collaborations. The film was filmed entirely in Pakistan, specifically in the southern Sindh province of the country. The struggles and challenges faced during the making of this film further amplify its impactful narrative.

Actors

• Dr. Mohammad Jawad - Playing himself in the film, Dr. Jawad plays the role of a savior; providing the victims with another shot at life through plastic and reconstructive surgery.
• Zakia and Rukhsana - Two victims of acid attacks who courageously share their stories of survival and healing.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The movie was the first Pakistani film to win an Academy Award.
• It was also the recipient of an Emmy for Best Documentary.
• Dr. Mohammad Jawad, a pivotal character in this documentary, was first introduced to wider audiences in the Channel 4 documentary "Bride and Prejudice".

Awards

Saving Face took away the biggest honor in the film industry by winning an Oscar at the 84th Academy Awards. It claimed the award in the Best Documentary Short category. The film also won an Emmy award for Outstanding Editing.

Quotes

• "Every year in Pakistan, at least 100 people are victimized by brutal acid attacks."
• "It is a story of resilience and resistance in the face of extreme adversity."

Music, Soundtrack

• The haunting score by Gunnard Doboze sets the tone of the film.
• Sound design by John Bowen played a pivotal role in threading together the emotional narrative of the film.