WUNRN
Women Make Movies
Turkey - Voices Unveiled: Turkish Women Who Dare - Film
Film Segment:
A
film by Binnur
Karaevli
US/Turkey,
2010, 69 minutes, Color, DVD, English, Subtitled
VOICES
UNVEILED examines this timely issue through portraits of three women pursuing
life paths and careers of their own choosing in present-day Turkey.
Each has defied social expectations in a democratic, secular nation where
religious fundamentalism has re-emerged as a political force and patriarchal
values still prevail. Well-known textile artist Belkis Belpinar, whose work
combines science and kilim rug traditions, resisted her father’s wishes that
she study engineering. Dancer and psychologist Banu Yucelar braved family
opposition to modern dance, widely perceived as a form of prostitution. Women’s
rights activist Nur Bakata Mardin helps women in underserved communities, where
old beliefs hold sway, form small business cooperatives.
As engaging as its subjects, VOICES UNVEILED punctuates its in-depth portraits
with insights from other Turks and lively discussions that include
intergenerational debates over veiling. The film is a valuable companion to WOMEN OF TURKEY,
which offers a different take on gender roles that embrace modern lifestyles
and Islamic culture.