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Tell us what you think >>
Selected submissions will be posted here regularly, so visit again to read more
comments.
07/22/2008
Troy Parrish
Hagerstown, Maryland
1. Yes, I agree the film's theme is the universal conflict between ambition and tradition for women, but, and even more so, I think it illustrates the lack of equality women endure in almost all cultures.
2. No, my perceptions of Arab Muslims living in Israel were not affected at all.
3. I disagree with the statement that Shadya can indeed "have it all," unless you mean by surrendering her self to muslim traditions. Shadya may only do what she is not forbidden to do and that presents itself as a rather interesting Catch 22.
I was very moved by this quite intimate portrait of Shadya, found it terribly sad, and even sadder still as a feminist. At least she wasn't stoned to death for her rebellious qualities.
02/11/2008
Ujval
It's not often I watch TV or let alone the public channel but when I stumbled upon a documentary about a young Muslim girl in Israel participating in Karate, I had to see what it was about. It was mesmerizing from the get go. Her personality and charm were magnetic. I couldn't stop watching the show!!! She exuded positivity and progress. In her, I saw a beautiful and ambitious young woman who was a winner. I felt as though she may even have a great career in acting or as a public figure!!! But as the film progressed, I felt sadder and sadder. I felt like she was in a funnel where at the top she had all the freedom but as she was sliding down, the freedom was closing in and it felt like it was going no where good. See, on the other side of the funnel was the unknown. I wish there was a part 2 to the documentary explaining the unknown. Even if Shadya didn't or doesn't ask for it, I think many people look to her as the hope on the other side. Those of us who cherish freedom hope that on the other side is a mirror where everything opens up again!!! Shadya, the person, was amazing but I'm upset at her brother and father. I'm upset at her brother for acting like his own sister was an enemy and I'm upset at her father for not always doing what is best for his child/children. I hope Shadya and her husband leave that area and go where they can be seen and heard. I think Shadya has the will, power, and charisma to represent people in her position.
09/26/2007
Yadira
Texas, United States
I loved this film,I cried almost the whole time, because she was a girl my age, who lives in a culture where women, can not follow their dreams freely. Her mother and brothers where not supportive at all, but her dad was. I found that incredible, because he was an understanding father, who just wanted the best for her daughters, he wanted them to succeed in what they loved.I loved her dad for being a supportive dad, no matter what, he reminded me of my father, as long as I was doing good things, he was supportive, just like shadyas dad, he was supportive of her love for karate, and for good reason. I did not want the film to end, I felt as if I had known these people for years. It made me sad when she married and her dreams where cut short, because now she had to be a wife. After the film ended I could not sleep, I was just thinking about Shadya en her dad, what was of them, how did the baby turn out, what was life after the film. I wish I could communicate with Shadya... she, her father and this documentary really touched my heart, I will never forget them...Everything in this film was touching, the words to summaries everything, would not let me ever finish, typing. Thanks for the film, I am hoping in buying the DVD.
5/25/07
AJ
I disagree with several posts. While Shadya's older brother does appear to be vindictive-it is Shadya, not the younger sister (also a martial arts competitor) he is upset with. He is angry with her sense of entitlement as Dad's favorite. But she also shows very bad behavior when she loses a tournament-perhaps she is spoiled. If the family lived somewhere else in the Arab world, her brother might have felt justified in killing her for honor-instead she is "married off" to a dishonest (he lied to his future father-in-law that he would support Shadya's martial arts competitions), but very attractive young man. She seemed very pleased to have him as her betrothed. How long would her competitive supremacy have lasted if she remained at home? Who knows, if she had been a Jewish Israeli she might have gone to university and kept competing-but perhaps not.
4/20/07
Laura
Holland, MI
I really loved this documentary so much so I cried myself to sleep and woke up this morning crying. A true sign of what was brought out in me by Shadya's story. I think that, regardless of culture and politics, this documentary speaks volumes of life, change, challenge, growth, obstacles, and learning. No one, no matter where they live, has an "easy" life. Easiness comes after many years of insight and detachment. We're all victim to life's waves.
I am so happy to know that Shadya's vibrancy was not put out by getting married and having a child. What a blessing and a model for girls of all ages to have a passion like Karate, something that will carry her through the rest of her life no matter what happens. I am eagerly awaiting the sequel: "Shadya, Life Goes On." Kudos!!!
3/14/07
Mousa
Memphis
I really felt for this family. The dad seems to patient and caring, yet I believe the
entire family is trying to find some direction in their lives. I do not think they are a
strong family with strong believes. The parents should have instilled some discipline with
a sense of purpose. Then again, the father may need some himself. One suggestion to Shadya
and her family; Remember that you are Palestinians who live under the rule of others. That
may be a start.
3/5/07
Patrick Markham
Norfolk, VA
It seems she suffered more as a girl/woman in her own Arab/Muslim society than as an
Arab/Muslim in Israeli society. Not saying for all Arab Israelis. Just making an
observation.
In case you read this, A7EBICH, SHADYA! TAALA, enshallah sa-ta-adheb-iin eila Amriika!
Hope things are better now for you, and thank you very much for giving us this glimpse
into your life. Take care.
2/23/07
Abe
Philadelphia
I felt Shadya and her family lived a sorry life. They say they are Arabs, but then speak
Hebrew to each other. They forget that that they are second class citizens at best. I have
been to both Jewish and Arab towns and their town's infrastructure is terrible compared to
Jewish towns. The dad and entire family seems to have acceptance the their oppression. The
movie was not very aspiring at all. Once they wake-up, they will realize how sad their
life is. This documentary did not provide hope at all.
2/12/07
Rohit Sharma
Jersey City
A happy cherubic kid who at the start of the movie impishly said she'll go to "Jahannum"
since she stopped praying, seemingly just enters one as she moved out of her parents place
into her husband and in-laws place with traditional values and well defined roles for men
and women. She seemed too young to realize the drastic change in life that befalls her and
she is wont to keep the bridge open with her free life - apparent when tries to break
family restrictions and go with her father to win the karate competition near the end of
the movie - she loses due to lack of practice than anything else.
It is an the zeal to live a free life that keeps us going. Shadya needs to sustain and
nourish it one way or another. I felt helpless watching the movie end, desperately wanting
to support her so I can win.
2/7/07
Keke Marie
The film caught my attention. I am sorry for the plight that Shadya had to go through in
her
Community.Her brother's lack of support and disdain of her participating Karate and
growing
successes in that sport. And her father for marrying her off quickly. But what's bother me
is the
way her brother sold her off to her finance's family to get her out of the house. But
after reading
update of her...With him and his wife having triple and it's all girls. Maybe God been and
is
telling him something. And I hope her and her husband continue to work and balance
marriage and work
together as a team. And my best luck and wishes go to them.
2/7/07
Melissa
Buffalo, NY
I wish to address this to Shadya, herself. I live in a very snowy part of the United
States so it is
very cold here right now. Yesterday evening you came into my home and warmed it with your
story.
Many thanks to you and your family for sharing with me and my family. I hope very much
that someday
you will have the opportunity to come to the United States and if you do, I hope to meet
you. You
are an extraordinary person and I admire you greatly.
2/6/07
Jay
Toronto, Ontario
I love a movie with a happy ending - she finally learned her place.
2/6/07
Irfan
Toronto, Ontario
" ".I am leaving the space between the quotation marks as a symbol that everyone will look
at this
documentary through their lens and will have different opinion about it. I personally
thinks its a
great documentary. Shadya represent big things and little things at the same time. She
represent
Israel, Palestine, Muslims, Arabs, Karate, Competition, mother,sister, daughter
........anything one
can relate. On the other hand, she represents broken dreams, a girl who was stopped from
climbing
and because of that we will never know how high she might have gone; a misfit in the
family, team
mates and arguably in the country. Nonetheless, she achieved something that many people
can only
dream to achieve.I wish best of luck to Shadya and her family and everyone who needs it.
2/6/07
NusaybaJulie
Detroit, MI
I caught Shadya purely by mistake, but found it to be a very interesting, and powerful
film that I
couldn't stop watching. My heart broke for her--I felt as though I were watching a wild
stallion get
tamed. It was sad to see her society try to extinguish the fire inside of her, and even
more
depressing when they actually succeeded.To all the Shadya's of the world: Keep Fighting.
2/6/07
Nusayba
Annandale, VA
This film was a load of Israeli propaganda. So much was done and said for the sake of the
camera
alone. At the karate tournament, if the camera was not on, the Israeli karate coach would
have never
offered to train with the Palestinians. I am a MUSLIM Palestinian American teenage girl. I
was
shocked and disheartened to see Shadya and her family, "Israeli-Arabs," accept their
persecutors as
friends and protectors. How could Shadya wear the Palestinian flag while representing
Israel, her
homeland's occupiers!? They call themselves Arabs, but win world championships for Israel.
I was so
disgusted by their lack of self-respect and dignity that I could barely watch. These
people cannot
call themselves Palestinians or even true Arabs As for being Muslim, they do not practice
their
religion. And Islam does not in any way contribute to the stifling or abuse of women.
Women in Islam
are revered and respected. What is shown in this documentary regarding Shadya's "place" is
cultural,
not religious. Shadya WAS too young to be married, she was still a child. And her husband
did lie
about letting her practice karate after the marriage. But the main focus of this movie was
showing
how Arabs are all "backward" and "uncivilized." Not to mention a completely dysfunctional
family.
1/30/07
Shoke Mohamed
Twin Cities, Minnesota
It really touched me in a profound way to see Shayda's heroic struggle to balance her
social,
religion and personal life. I felt relief to see that her father will always stand by her,
in
whatever she wants to do. She is smart, strong and independent woman and she deserves to
be whatever
she wants to be. I felt sorry to see her loose her independency and Karate dream. As a
Muslim
myself, I understand where she is coming from, and all she needs is to practice her
religion and
that shouldn't stop her from chasing her dreams.
1/29/07
Aida Todri
Santa Barbara, CA
I just saw the documentary and I'm so touched by Shadya. By the end, I felt like her
dreams and
aspirations were taken away from her. In the same time, you can see she deals with her
struggles
with such a maturity for her age. She has such a strong character and so talented. I was
so happy to
read that she is doing well and back to training. She such an inspiration for Muslim
women. I wish
her well.
1/29/07
Kelly Lynn
VA
I loved this film. As someone of the age that Shadya was when she got married, this film
truly spoke
volumes to me. I spent most of the movie trying really hard not to cry, because as it went
on the
viewer could see the cage slowly shutting around her. Shadya came across as being a
beautiful,
intelligent, and passionate young woman. There are so many American parents who would be
delighted
to have a girl as confident, strong, and self-possessed as she is. I could easily see her
heading a
major corporation, or starting her own. If anyone has the ability to break the glass
ceiling, it
would be her.
This makes it all the more frustrating as you see her slowly sinking into the trap of
tradition. Her
father was right- she shouldn't have married so young. She's confident, but not yet old
enough to
understand the value of compromise. For her, it's a win-or-lose situation. This
take-no-prisoners
approach (demonstrated in the scene where she loses) would serve her well in the corporate
world,
but is a dangerous attitude to have where she lives.
1/29/07
Ahmad
Fairfax, VA
I watched this show last night and I must say it was not very moving. It was hard for me
to tell
what the theme of the documentary was: Karate, Arabs, Israelis, Hope and Despair, an
independent
girl growing up. She referred to herself in the third-person. I thought that was arrogant,
annoying
and immature; very much a turn-off. I also felt that she was a spoiled child trying to
find herself.
She displayed this at the South African tournament when she lost a match and started to
storm out of
the stadium only to come back after the coach intervened. It was amazing that her family
spoke
Hebrew almost exclusively even though her family called themselves Arab.
1/29/07
Alan Owens
Ann Arbor, Michigan
This movie cheered me up about the Middle East.
1/29/07
David Rubin
St. Louis, MO
Thank you for showing this excellent film. I disagree that it depicts the "struggle" of
Arab
"Muslims" living in Israel. I think it depicts the life of Israeli Arabs accurately. It
shows that
there is a distinction between Arab citizens and Palestinians, and that not everyone's
life is
obsessed with "the Occupation," contrary to the simplistic depictions of the media. And it
accurately shows Israeli Arab culture, which is moderate and secular.
Just as your reference to "struggle" is misplaced, the reference to "Muslim" is also
misplaced.
Shadya's struggles are not the result of Islam. They are the result of traditional
Palestinian Arab
culture. Palestinian Arab Christians would show the same biases. You do a disservice to
Islam when
you blame it for the depicted discrimination.
The film does depict that someone (Christian, Muslim, or Jew) did not serve the father
coffee (maybe
he ran out or was only open for dinner, we don't know...). But in any event, the film also
depicts
the fact that Arab citizens of Israel speak Hebrew, have the same access to government
athletic
programs as Jewish citizens, and can participate equally, as teammates without
discrimination. The
fact is that Arabs living in Israel - a democracy - have more rights than they have in any
other
Arab country in the world - and the women have equal rights under the law. An Israeli Arab
was just
named as cabinet minister and an Arab justice sits on the Israeli Supreme Court.
1/25/07
Victor Martin
New York, NY
I really liked this story. I think it was a well made documentry. It shows what it is like
to be a
Muslim woman, even thou it is different in other countries of the Arab world. My feelings
on Shadya
is that the best thing was for her father to let her practice and win first place for
awhile till
she is twenty years old and then let her marry. I believe her father loves her greatly and
really
wants the best for her, but arrainged too much too soon. Karate really gave her the
confidence to
act the way she did, but her father was the one to really give her the freedom. She is
really lucky
to even have the chance to study karate, let alone to dress very freely for a muslim girl.
If she
was in Afganinstan she would not have the liberty to do the things she did. Other muslim
countries
won't let women go as far as she did in studying Karate or some other discipline. She was
really
lucky to have had the happines to study karate and be different than other muslim girls.
But now her
life is different, she is married and pregnant with not much chance to do what she did
before. I
feel she is a good young woman but still a teenager only 18 years of age, so of course she
may rebel
like alot of other kids. I think her father is a good man and very open minded compared to
other
muslim men.
1/25/07
J. Kyle Hudler
North East, MD
I saw Shadya late last night, and I really am inspired.
While how she spoke of herself in third person may strike some people as arrogant, I think
what's
more important is how it spoke volumes in terms of her independence and self-confidence in
a society
that encourages neither in women. She fiercely believed in her personal freedom and didn't
let
tradition stop her from having it. To me, an American 19-y/o guy, she's a role model for
everybody.
Also admirable was how her father respected her aspirations and did all he could to
support them.
True, it seemed as if he lost some faith in her as she moved on in life towards
motherhood, but up
until then, he was fantastic in providing support and encouragement to Shadya when few
others would.
1/24/07
LaDonna C.
Philly, PA
I swear, Shadya and especially the way she would refer to herself in the first person, was
cocky,
arrogant, even annoyingly so at times. Very much a young and talented girl, full of hopes.
I was
sickened by the end, watching everything she loved and enjoyed being taken away from her
like that.
I kept willing her to just Run, Shadya, Run! I hope what they say is true and that she is
getting
another chance to compete. No one deserves what she has gone through.
1/24/07
Janice
Springfield, Ohio
Excellent documentary! One aspect of the story that struck me was the family dynamic.
Strong bond
between the father and two daughters, seemingly based only on the daughters'
accomplishments. They
were driven to succeed because that is how they got love. Sadly, one got the feeling that
once
Shadya was leaving karate, her father no longer valued her...The brothers were apparently
jealous of
this close bond. How did they get approval from dad? Did they? Mother, at least as
portrayed in the
film, is distant and peripheral. Perhaps she is close to her sons through serving them.
Shadya and
Morad seem like they could be trailblazers in their community. I hope they can succeed in
a healthy
marriage based on mutual respect, freedom, and pride in one another. I'm very appreciative
of the
online update, and hope to hear more about Shadya in the years ahead. Hope the film-makers
will do
additional films on the lives of Israeli Arabs, or Palestinian Arabs, or an Israeli Jewish
family...
1/24/07
Marshall, Arkansas
After I saw SHADYA I couldn't stop thinking about how all of her dreams seemed to be
destroyed. I
could see that a very young girl wasn't ready for marriage, or to deal with all of the
other
problems she was facing. I just had to see the movie again, and I was so happy to find
that Shadya
had really become a woman who was dealing with her problems and finding pleasure in
motherhood and
taking up karate again. I believe that the love and approval Shadya received from her
father will
give her the self esteem she needs in whatever she decides to do in her life.
1/24/07
Brooke
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Bravo, Frank Luck. I completely agree with you on everything you said. It pains me to see
such a
vibrant, intelligent, authority-questioning young woman to be forced to lose everything
special and
unique about her. She should have had some "real" support behind her to prevent her from
being fed
to the lions (society and her husband.) One of the things that topped this movie for me
was at the
end when her sister won first place in the karate competition! She was glad to be rid of
Shadya and
took her place! That betrayal was a bitter pill to swallow.
1/24/07
Manoj V
Princeton, NJ, USA
Very well done documentary. I couldn't stop watching it from the moment I first saw it. As
an Indian
born American Citizen, I can relate to her story. It's very hard for women in conservative
societies
to break with "tradition". Her husband was also caught up in the societal pressure of
family honor.
I'm glad he had the courage to allow her to continue training. In eastern culture it's
hard for men
to allow women to go outside of the bounds of societal norms. They will be either seen as
weak or
permissive and derelict in their duties as protector of family honor. But, I'm glad her
father
encouraged his daughters to pursue their dreams. Look what they have achieved. As a father
of an
eight year old girl, I want the best for her and will encourage and support her in
achieving her
dreams. Shadya's father set an example for Muslim men everywhere. Stop worrying about
society and do
the best for your children. They can be champions like Shadya. Brava Shadya!
1/23/07
Kara Kovacev
New York, NY
After reading the Q&A with the filmmakers, I was surprised to discover that Shadya had
indeed
returned to training and hoped to compete again. The film made it seem that her life in
karate had
been crushed by a domineering husband, disappointed father and a new baby. This film is so
compelling and complicated. I only wish it went a step beyond and showed that Shadya was
not
defeated, but continues the difficult task of balancing family, tradition, and the pursuit
of
dreams.
1/23/07
Larchmont, NY
Shine on Shadya! I am tired of this whole "can women have it all?" Despite the likes
Elizabeth
Vargas, this is not open for public debate, nor should it be. We act like we have the
luxury/privilege to judge Women's personal choices. We as a whole society don't have a say
in other
people's choices. and how individuals live their lives. Society should not be debating
what women
can/should have or not have. My life is my own and the choices I make are nobody's
business but my
own. Gloria Steinem said it best: "I have yet to hear a man ask for advice on how to
combine
marriage and a career"
Shadya, keep going...
1/23/07
Tenafly, NJ
I saw the film last night and was most impressed with this courageous, plucky young lady
who
succeeded in her quest beyond all expectations. Also to challenge the culture of the
Moslem ways in
such a manner is a tribute to the modern young person in such a culture. Perhaps living in
Israel
has given those who would want to "break out" into the modern way of life have a greater
opportunity
than elsewhere. I believe that the Israeli would cheer these brave people onward, and
especially if
they win like Shadya did, or even if they don't. Just the efforts alone are a big step
forward.
1/23/07
PK Hammel
Madison, WI
I practiced Shotokan karate for 22 years (JKA). I never had the success in competition
that Shadya
had (started at age 29), but women were only first allowed to spar (kumite) in the AAKF
(American
Amateur Karate Federation) a few years before I began practicing in the USA. One of my
friends/teachers, a woman nuclear engineer, initially competed against men because women
were not
allowed to compete for fear of damage to their "delicate" bodies-this is USA late
1970's-early 80's.
Also I heard a lot about U.S. women martial artists (various styles-at the National
Women's Martial
Arts Federation' summer camps-1984-92) not being permitted to do knuckle push ups,
harassed by male
students, etc. When I accidentally tuned into this show midway, I assumed that Shadya
lived in an
Arabic country--was very surprised when she was on the Israeli national team. Fascinating
story. I
wish I could tell Shadya how much I admired her beautiful kata and her speed and power in
kumite-all
so familiar, down to the crazy hyperactive scene at competitions. I 'm sure she will
resume her
training sometime in the future. There is something women get from martial arts training
that they
never lose. It comes in handy during childbirth--I know. Though having kids does cut into
the time
women have for karate (it does not generally affect men in this way). Thank you, Shadya
for sharing
your story and your beautiful karate.
1/22/07
Houston, TX
Like many viewers I reacted to this film with a sense of outrage and sadness at Shadya's
struggle
and the suppression of her spirit. Two things stand out for me, however: first, that while
this film
seems to confirm what little I know of Muslim culture as regards women, I think it's
important to
recognize that many Muslims may not adhere to this narrow view of women and their place.
Shadya's is
one story and probably not representative of the culture as a whole, just as American
culture cannot
be summed up by, say, the film "Supersize Me."
Second, in some ways it seems that our own culture dictates to us the range of
possibilities just as
surely as Shadya's circumstances circumscribe her. The concept of "femininity" in this
country is
wrapped up in extreme thinness and an obvious sexuality. To be "masculine," males must
repress every
emotion except anger, exude confidence, and have abs of steel. "Success" means being able
to buy
stuff you don't need. Any who don't fit the molds find themselves engaged inan endless
battle for
validation--kind of like Shadya.
And maybe that's it, right there. It's not about women, or Muslims, or ambition, or
Neanderthal
brothers--it's about the chance to write and have accepted our own definition of our
selves,
regardless of the status quo. It's a battle that never ends.
1/22/07
Jason
Saratoga, NY
No-one else mentioned the fact that before they were married, her husband said he would
support
there interest in karate. It was sad to see that after they were married she stopped her
training
and was stuck at home until her dad came to get her. I wonder how her brothers grew up to
be so
against her and her sister practicing karate since her Dad had such a modern view of
allowing them
to?
1/22/07
Cheryl
East Windsor, NJ
The defeated look on Shadya's face is heartbreaking. To require such talent to waste is
criminal. I
hope after her child is born, her husband changes his views and supports and encourages
her. Too bad
he was a coward and didn't tell her before marriage that he didn't want her to compete.
Shame on
him! At one point in the film Shadya said she was without family. How sad!
1/22/07
This is not a Muslim predicament but a Female predicament.
I'm upset that the death of Shadya's dreams are blamed on her religion. I am an American
woman, that
has mourned the death of my dreams after having a child. I don't think this experience is
unique to
Muslim or Arab women, and I think spinning it that way helps perpetuate a negative image
of Eastern
culture. It's hard for women to have their own life and care for another, without there
being a
sacrifice in the quality of either. To think women can 'have it all' is not only
shortsighted but
also places superhuman expectations on us.
1/22/07
Rita
I just wanted to say that I watched the documentary last night and understood Shadya
internal
conflict. I'm American of Hispanic origin, and while the west is liberal, there's still
the
underlying current of what a woman's role in life should be. I just hope that Shadya will
succeed...
1/22/07
Ted
San Diego, CA
The essence of this girl's challenge was captured in the attitudes of her brother. Having
accomplished little of anything on his own, he was jealous of her success. A 17-year-old
girl showed
him up for what he was, and he resented her. He and those like him relied on a religion
and culture
that oppresses and diminishes women to subdue and stifle her spirit. If your are a girl,
you better
not learn, you better not know, you better not accomplish. You dare not. If you do, then
Arab men
cannot stand up to the contrast. This film showed how frightened oppressors concerned with
controlling women were so afraid of losing that control. In the stark contrast between
themselves
and Shadya's spirit, they were seen for who and what they really were. And that terrified
them.
1/22/07
Cherylann
Seattle, WA
I felt so sad to see how strong the social pressure/fear is...that it squashes both men
and women
into only pre approved roles. It's hard for me to imagine how I would stand up to such
pressure that
suggests my character can be determined by how well I control my partner--I actually also
felt sad
for the men, who cave to this pressure. THIS is the freedom I hadn't realized I had until
I saw this
documentary. I hope that both Shadya and her husband can outgrow this pressure and feel
proud of
being different. They have my admiration for trying.
1/22/07
New York, NY
Reading the update on Shadya's life, I couldn't help wondering if her husband's "change of
heart"
regarding her karate and other ambitions, had anything to do with this film coming out and
getting
shown to a wide international audience. There's nothing like knowing the "world is
watching" to put
a little pressure on those who would stifle others, to finally "see the light"!
1/22/07
Fran Luck
New York, NY
I too felt sadness and anguish watching Shadya fall into a trap prepared for her by
generations of
tradition. How was such a strong, vibrant and talented young woman defeated?
Shadya had no support system among women of her community; her mother did not support her,
and even
her sister--though another karate practitioner--abandoned her, saying "Shadya should stay
home with
her husband".
What fragile support system she had through her father, unraveled when she married. Then,
legally
and by tradition, her husband claimed authority (and economic control) over her, and her
father had
an uphill battle. Her expected 'housewifely duties' took up the time she needed for
practice and her
skills atrophied. When she started losing matches, her father's motivation to support
her--already
weakened by his increased sense of powerlessness vis a vis her husband--collapsed, and he
abandoned
her also.
I think the film is an extremely clear illustration of how an individual woman, no matter
how
strong, cannot stand
all alone against her society. What Shadya needed was a feminist movement that came out of
her own
culture and was widespread enough to counter the weight of male-centered "traditions";
only then
could she have gotten the support she needed and had a "fighting chance". The same applies
to women
in every society. In this country, where we've advanced because women have organized,
there is still
pressure on us to abandon the freedoms--and we must continue our own struggle.
1/22/07
Bob Giles
A beautiful piece of documentary filmmaking. I was flipping though the channels, stopped
to see what
this was all about, and got sucked right into the story then had to watch to the
conclusion.
Fantastic work. This is what documentary filmmaking should be. Let the story tell the
story, not the
filmmaker! I can't wait to see what's next.
1/22/07
Ingrid
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
This is the first movie that has ever made me cry.
1/22/07
Jake Allison
Muscatine, Iowa
I would understand marrying so young if the financial situations of either family were
desperate,
but they were living in nice homes! How can these kinds of traditions still be held in
regard by
anyone? It is so hard for me, as a free person to understand modern-day slavery.
1/22/07
starrdo2003@yahoo.com
San Antonio, T.X.
First of all, I have to mostly agree with everyone else here. It's very sad that Shadya
could not
continue competing. However, I'm in ASK (American Society of Karate) here, and I can tell
you that
it is NOTHING like that here. The majority of those in adult karate here DO have children,
and they
go on competing. What I don't understand is why her brother, but not her father, was
hostile towards
her competing
1/19/07
I found the Shadya story very sad. I want to take her away from her new family and reunite
her with
her dad and return her to that wich she loves.
They are killing her spirit!
1/19/07
Brooke
Colorado Springs, Colorado
I LOVE this girl so much, she is so beautiful and her spirit is alive, fiesty and free.
I'm so so so
soooo sorry to see what marriage and a man have done to her; her family sold her out and
betrayed
her. They helped break her spirit! I will never forget Shadya.
1/19/07
Heman Bhojwani
Portland, Oregon
While the documentary was very well done, it was extremely difficult to watch and know
that there
are such insecure some people (especially her brothers and her husband, Morad) out there.
It was
also quite a shame that Shadya's father got her married of so soon. At least he realized
and
admitted his mistake.
The reason why such men continue to opress women is due to their own insecurities. They
have been
brainwashed from generations to feel that they are not "real" men if a woman can do the
same things
as a males, especially if she could do it better. For them to label the role of a woman to
cook and
clean is an absolute poor excuse. It is just laziness and ignorance on the men's part.
It is very sad to know that that attitude among many men still exists, and will continue
to.
Unfortunately, I don't see it changing any time soon.
Either way, fantastic documentary work.
1/19/07
J. E. Faulkner
This program on Shadya Moabe has simply verified my belief that Moslem culture bears a
visceral
contempt for women, their natural, individual rights and their personal sovereignty. It is
a pity
that the women of Islamic "cultures" have been so culturally isolated and thoroughly
brainwashed
into accepting the idea that a woman requires a man's permission to simply live and
breathe. This is
slavery, pure and simple. It is a moral abomination, and the UN has shamefully looked the
other way
in putting a stop to it around the world. I have no patience or acceptance for "cultures"
that
assert their moral validity while enslaving half of the human race to the other half.
As a practicing Karateka (Kajukenpo Karate) myself, and a Libertarian feminist, I can tell
you how
quickly I would put MY Karate training to good use if my husband or ANY man attempted to
limit my
actions, thoughts or ambitions. And concerned women here in the U.S. need to re-ignite
their own
vigilance lest the Christian Right (white male supremacist movement)in THIS country
implements its
political/legal agenda to bind American women into the same style shackles that bind the
minds,
actions and lives of Moslem women today. Tell Shadya to just say "no" to her husband,
stand her
ground, fight him, if he becomes physical, and then go her own independent 'Karate Way'.
She lives
in Israel, after all, and the laws there, at least, will protect her rights.
1/18/07
I found this to be an excellent film. The images and ideals of Shadya will stay with me
for a long
time to come.
1/18/07
Kathleen Algere
Not only was Shadya's story great, it was a personal testimony I will never forget.
Despite her
marriage, baby, and overpowering traditions, I believe her strength and determination will
be the
key to the freedom of future Arab Muslim Women. Sometimes results of such bold challenges
in life
are not seen until two or three generations later. My prayer is that Shadya learns that
"having it
all" is having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Who can continue to open doors
that her
traditions refuse to open.
1/18/07
This was an incredible film. I believe that all women, worldwide, struggle with the sort
of conflict
that Shadya faces in the film. The specifics of her situation are unique to her family,
culture, and
personality, of course, but if we feel pity and fear watching this young woman's struggle
then we
should feel that pity and fear for ourselves. Shadya touched me and inspired me.
1/18/07
Boise, ID
I watched Shadya late last night before sleep. Afterwards, I couldn't sleep. All night I
dwelt on
what I saw. I truly thought, as she prepared for her wedding, that she was strong enough
to ignore
her heritage and be her on person, but in the end, she accepted her assigned place. But
that's just
it, it wasn't her place. I was very angry inside at her situation, I felt helpless myself.
I did
feel some joy as she told her husband to hold on when he commanded the TV camera's off.
Seeing her
pregnant at the end was moving. I wanted to take her away myself, to help, but in that
thought, I
again felt helpless. I would love to meet her now, to see what and how she'll raise her
children, to
see if her marriage lasted with her rebel spirit.
1/18/07
Las Cruces, NM
I thought about this film all day. My best wishes to Shadya and her husband. I know what a
balancing
act marriage can be when there are things that you want in life outside your family. It
seems that
when you are first married you try to force the other into becoming what you expected. Our
marriage
became stronger when we both could let the other be what they are and maybe even come over
to their
way of thinking a little. My husband probably wanted a more traditional wife but we got
through it
and now after 25 years I know he's proud of my accomplishments. Living where I do means I
didn't
have to face near the challenges that Shadya faces but it seems like they are both people
who can
work things out. Good luck to this young couple and may they find the balance of the
outside world
and family.
1/18/07
Geneva, IL
Your film intrigued me. It was refreshing to see how perseverance can transcend cultural
boundaries.
Shadya and her father are truly extraordinary individuals.
1/18/07
Randal
Honolulu, Hawai
I didn't want to watch it all but I couldn't stop watching it. very well done; I just had
to see
what happened. I hope there'll be a sequel/follow up story to this one since she's
training and
hoping for a come back. I wish her all the best in her personal life and her life in
karate...
1/18/07
Elias Vargas
San Francisco, California
I felt sorry that Shadya wanted to get marry at such an early age, because she had to give
up the
one thing she loved doing. She wasn't good at karate she was the best in Israel. Her
husband is
coward by not revealing his real motives before marring her. Unfortunately she could get
that
information out of, but then it's not a surprise, since women's need are secondary to what
ever the
husbands needs are. She fell in to a love trap that had a sad ending.
1/18/07
Portland, Oregon
While the documentary was very well done, it was extremely difficult to watch and know
that there
are such insecure some people (especially her brothers and her husband, Morad) out there.
It was
also quite a shame that Shadya's father got her married of so soon. At least he realized
and
admitted his mistake. The reason why such men continue to oppress women is due to their
own
insecurities. They have been brainwashed from generations to feel that they are not "real"
men if a
woman can do the same things as a males, especially if she could do it better. For them to
label the
role of a woman to cook and clean is an absolute poor excuse. It is just laziness and
ignorance on
the men's part. It is very sad to know that that attitude among many men still exists, and
will
continue to. Unfortunately, I don't see it changing any time soon Either way, fantastic
documentary
work.
1/18/07
San Antonio, TX
My heart was so touched watching the metamorphous of this vibrant young women settling
into the life
of a wife and mother. It was filled with sadness as I watched her hopes and dreams of
greatness die,
but was filled with hope as I her continue her craft in a another way, and begin life as a
mother.
This is a conflict for many women, and although we have the power of choice and the option
to do
both here in America, I see that many women are choosing to put their ambitions to the
side to
invest in their families. I am a married and a mother of three; I have found it is so
important to
give my best to my family, but my family and I have learned that it is best to let me have
my own
interests and take care of myself as well, otherwise I won't be happy and neither would
they.
1/18/07
Hattiesburg, MS
Shadya represents a more pronounced, blunt version of the troubles all women face when
balancing
home, work, and ambitions. As a recent science PhD, mother of a toddler, pregnant with our
second, I
very much relate. Thankfully, I have a supportive and loving husband, but we've had many
heated
about the goals of our family, even here in America
1/18/07
Jacqueline Temple
Ocean Springs, MS
I loved Shadya and her family. Thank You for this great story.
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