The film “No Paradise If You Are Killed By A Woman” flips the traditional lone action hero trope on its head, introducing a compelling female Peshmerga sniper. This visually striking drama, directed by Norwegian-Kurdish filmmaker Halkawt Mustafa, has already been selected as Iraq’s entry for the Best International Feature Oscar. While the movie may appeal to festival audiences, it has the potential to align differently with Western viewers who might find the balance of action and melodrama challenging. However, audiences in MENA regions are likely to connect deeply with its themes and craftsmanship.
The Story of Vyan: A Journey of Resilience
The film follows the story of Vyan, a 24-year-old Kurdish woman portrayed by the talented Avan Jamal. As she visits Iraqi Kurdistan with her family in 2014, chaos erupts when Islamic State (IS) launches an attack. In a harrowing turn of events, her parents are murdered and Vyan, along with her younger sister Helin, is captured and sold as a sex slave. Displaying remarkable resilience, Vyan manages to escape, killing her captor before making her way to safety within Peshmerga territory. There, she joins a prestigious unit of female fighters, stepping into the role of a sniper.
Peshmerga Warriors: Strength Through Fearlessness
Vyan’s narrative is punctuated by her introspective voiceover, which explains the meaning of “Peshmerga”—translating to “before death.” The fighters embrace their duty with a sense of courage that defies their fear. Vyan’s prowess as a sniper is impressive; she claims to have eliminated over 100 enemies in three years. Remarkably, IS fighters have placed a significant bounty on her head, further illustrating the danger she faces.
A Decision of Life and Death
After a daring act of heroism that prevents a suicide bomber from attacking her unit, Vyan is severely wounded and returns to Norway for recovery. Here, she is confronted with a difficult decision by a government official: should she assume a new identity and receive protection, or face the possibility of prosecution for fighting abroad? Amidst this turmoil, a distressing discovery reveals that her sister Helin remains captive in Mosul, held by a notorious IS sniper. Fueled by loyalty, Vyan prepares for what could be her most dangerous mission yet: to rescue her sister.
A Tense, Cinematic Journey
The latter half of the film transforms into a gripping narrative reminiscent of a high-stakes video game, portraying Vyan’s stealthy trek through tunnels and desolate landscapes ravaged by IS. Unlike previous war films, “No Paradise” delves into the meticulous operations of a sniper, highlighting the patience and strategy required for such a role. Working alongside a Kurdish commander, Vyan utilizes both logic and skill to navigate the threats posed by IS snipers, aiming to save the civilians trapped in the devastated region.
In closing, “No Paradise If You Are Killed By A Woman” reveals itself as a multifaceted exploration of courage, family, and the complexities of warfare. Mustafa’s research, stemming from his previous experiences as a war photographer and his commitment to portraying strong women, adds depth to the narrative. The cinematography, executed by John Erling H. Fredriksen, and the authentic settings in Mosul enrich the film’s visual storytelling. The sound design, crafted by Mattias Eklund and Jan Kasskawo, enhances the tension, making this film a powerful cinematic experience that resonates with audiences across cultures.