Ethnographic Film Series

Organised by SOAS Department of Anthropology & Sociology in conjunction with Royal Anthropological Institute

Wednesday 13 January 1pm, Khalili Lecture Theatre, Lower Ground Floor, Main Building, SOAS

Sepideh: Reaching for the Stars

Berit Madsen, 2013, 90 mins

The film follows the story of Sepideh, a young Iranian who dares to pursue her dream despite the many societal pressures and familial obligations that threaten to block her path.  Sixteen-year-old Iranian citizen Sepideh wants to become an astronaut. But at her age the nightly stargazing excursions in the desert are a dangerous thorn in the side of family and traditions. She watches a clip of the world’s first female astronaut, the Persian-American Anousheh Ansari, and after that she becomes more serious in her efforts.  The film won both the Basil Wright Film Prize and the Dogwoof Audience Film Prize at the 14th RAI International Festival of Ethnographic Film 2015.

For further information on the films please contact: RAI Film Officer, Caterina Sartori, film@therai.org.uk

All are welcome, booking not required.