Brides

Watched at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival.

Despite a familiarity subject about coming-of-age tales, Nadia Fall still offers a new take on the subject which combines both empathetic performances from Edaba Hassan and Safiyya Ingar, character dynamics and direction throughout. The themes of girlhood, freedom, culture, and friendship is well-explored between the characters. Nadia Fall is able to craft a story that helps connect with the characters, alongside with some good humor, camerawork and atmosphere approaches. Even tho road movies are a predictable genre, Fall still knows how to engage.

I really enjoyed how the dynamics are portray between the characters as both don't come off as stereotypical or fake, rather they felt nature and realistic. Especially regarding the dialogue and decision makings (which certain decisions are a bit confusing and frustrating. Whether it was intentional or not, it does have some issues).

Writing wise, it's solid. It's not perfect as some of the structure feels a bit misplaced and certain aspects could have been more impactful. But as a whole, I enjoyed this new approach.