Watch Sitara: Let Girls Dream

Sitara: Let Girls Dream is a Pakistani animated short film that tackles topics such as early marriage, gender oppression, and the importance of dreams. Directed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, the film was released in 2019, and has since gained attention for its beautiful animation and its important message. The film revolves around the story of Pari, a 14-year-old girl who lives in a small village in Pakistan. Pari dreams of becoming a pilot, and her vivid imagination takes her on flights of fancy where she soars through the clouds, free as a bird. However, as she grows older, her father begins to pressure her into giving up her dreams and marrying a man chosen for her. Pari's mother, who was forced into a loveless marriage at a young age, tries to stand up for her daughter, but ultimately feels powerless to stop the forces pushing Pari towards early marriage.

The film is noteworthy for its gorgeous animation, which was created using a mix of traditional hand-drawn animation and computer-generated effects. The attention to detail is evident in every frame, from the intricate patterns on the characters' clothing to the vivid colors that bring the world to life. The art style is reminiscent of classic Disney films, and the character designs are expressive and full of personality.

Despite its short length (just over 15 minutes), Sitara: Let Girls Dream manages to pack a powerful emotional punch. The story is a poignant reminder of the struggles that many young girls face in conservative societies, where their dreams and aspirations are often sacrificed for the sake of tradition and societal expectations. Pari's story is one that will resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, and the film's message of hope and perseverance will leave viewers feeling inspired.

One of the most striking aspects of Sitara: Let Girls Dream is its use of music to convey emotion and drive the narrative forward. The film features original music by Laura Karpman, and the score is a beautiful blend of traditional Pakistani instruments and Western orchestration. The music adds a layer of depth to the story, elevating it beyond mere visual spectacle and into a truly immersive experience.

At its core, Sitara: Let Girls Dream is a call to action for viewers to stand up against gender oppression and work towards a world where young girls are free to pursue their dreams. Despite the serious themes it tackles, the film is never preachy or heavy-handed. Instead, it presents a powerful and resonant story that will leave audiences moved and inspired.

In conclusion, Sitara: Let Girls Dream is a stunning animated short film that tells a powerful story about the importance of dreams and the struggles that many girls face in conservative societies. Featuring gorgeous animation, a beautiful score, and a poignant message, the film is a true gem in the world of animation. Sitara: Let Girls Dream is a must-see for anyone who believes in the power of art to effect change in the world.

Sitara: Let Girls Dream is a 2020 animated movie with a runtime of 15 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.