[i-am-belmaya--Film-list-image]

2020 / 80 minutes

Directed by
Sue Carpenter

Belmaya is desperate for independence. Born a dalit in Nepal, orphaned aged 9, barely educated, and trapped in an abusive marriage with a baby daughter, Belmaya, 21, has given up hope of finding happiness. When a chance to train in documentary filmmaking arises, she grasps it. But are her resentful husband and conservative community ready for this? The film follows Belmaya as she grows in confidence and ability, and she turns from subject to co-director of her story. In an inspirational and moving tale of rebellion, courage and hope, shot over five years, Belmaya battles to take charge of her story.

In the 2021 RAI Film Fest Main Competition