Saudi Women's Driving School

Saudi Women's Driving School, directed by Erica Gornall and produced by Nick London, is a critically acclaimed 2019 documentary that sheds light on the social and cultural transformations occurring in Saudi Arabia, especially in the realm of women's rights. The central focus of this hour-long HBO critically acclaimed documentary is Saudi Arabia's historic lifting of the driving ban on women in 2018.

At the heart of Saudi Women's Driving School is a rich and eclectic cast of characters. Amjad Alamri, a female racing car driver, stands as a testament to the radical change sweeping across women's roles in Saudi Arabian society. She provides an intriguing narrative, calling attention to the empowering and individualistic aspects of driving. Laijad al Hathloul and Shahad al Humaizi complement Alamri's bold persona with their individual narratives. These powerful women, each with their unique perspective, navigate the changing landscape of women's empowerment in Saudi Arabia, symbolized by their newfound freedom to drive.

Against the backdrop of the ban lift, the movie takes viewers through the experiences of women attending Saudi Arabia's first ever women-only driving school in the capital, Riyadh. While the school becomes the literal vehicle for transformation, the metaphoric significance of women taking the wheel after decades of a draconic ban provides a dramatic contrast, enhancing the narrative's social relevance. The cinematic portrayal of this transformative social and political moment opens a window into the everyday lives of Saudi women, making it a memorable watch.

While retaining a strong focus on the driving school, the film provides an in-depth look into the complex interplay of traditions, changing cultural norms, state politics, and individual agency that shapes women's experiences in Saudi Arabia. The camera becomes a silent observer of intimate moments, both empowering and conflicting, amplifying the human stories behind this historic policy change. It offers a nuanced narrative that captures an array of emotions: the excitement of women driving for the first time, the trepidation of societal backlash, and the cautious optimism for a future characterized by increased freedom and opportunities.

The documentary successfully challenges the traditional stereotypes associated with Saudi women, revealing them as real-time agents of change rather than silent victims of a paternalistic society. We get to see not just one, but many faces of Saudi Arabia as women from diverse backgrounds - social, economic, and educational - drive cars driven by their ambition and guts. It provides a broad canvas where the richness of individual experiences is painted against a transformative socio-political move, thereby creating a narrative that is at once personal and universal.

Adding further depth to the narrative, Saudi Women's Driving School also highlights the struggles of women's rights activists in the country. Laijad al Hathloul, for instance, shares her sister Loujain's ordeal, who has been imprisoned for her activism. Through their stories, the film presents the paradox of change, illuminating the sacrifices and the challenges faced by those at the forefront of the fight for equality.

The invaluable cinematic techniques used by the director, interspersed with gripping personal interviews, powerful narratives, and evocative images, create a compelling narrative style that inspires, provokes, and enlightens. The film invites its viewers to appreciate this slice of history while subtly urging the global community to continue supporting these women's journey towards complete emancipation.

Saudi Women's Driving School is much more than a film about women learning to drive. It is a portrait of resilience, courage, and hope, reflecting the changing face of Saudi Arabia. More importantly, it challenges viewers to reassess their understanding of women's roles within Middle Eastern societies, making it not just a film, but a vivid showcase of a pivotal historical moment.