Crimes of Honour (1999)

Throughout the Islamic world, each year hundreds of women are shot, stabbed, strangled or burned to death by male relatives because they are thought to have “dishonoured” their families. They may have lost their virginity, refused an arranged marriage or left an abusive husband. Even if a woman is raped or merely the victim of gossip, she must pay the price. Crimes of Honour documents the terrible reality of femicide – the belief that a girl’s body is the property of the family, and any suggestion of sexual impropriety must be cleansed with her blood. We meet women in hiding from their families, a brother who describes his reasons for killing the sister he loved, and a handful of women who have committed themselves to the protection of young women in danger of losing their lives.

Overview
"Crimes of Honour" is an informing documentary from 1999 directed by Shelley Saywell. The movie examines and explores the deeply troubling issue of honor killings - the murder of ladies by their own member of the family if they're believed to have brought embarassment or dishonor. With a specific concentrate on communities in Jordan and Palestine, the film provides audiences a chilling insight into the complex cultural and social standards that continue to allow such atrocities.

Material Summary
"Crimes of Honour" shares moving personal stories of females who have been victims or possible targets of honour-based violence. The film presents audiences to girls who have left from perpetrated atrocities and are now residing in secret shelters, fearing retribution from their own households. The film takes audiences through shelters, courts, jails, and personal interviews, providing a brilliant image of this less gone over, yet dominating human rights infraction.

Structure and Context
The documentary's story unfolds in a non-linear pattern and shows a deep sense of cultural level of sensitivity. It supplies a historical and social context of honor killings by highlighting previous cases, legal provisions, and social attitudes in Middle Eastern society. While centering the stories of victims and survivors, the movie likewise explores the point of view of perpetrators and the complex reasoning behind their actions to supply a holistic understanding of the problem.

Criticism of Societal Attitudes and Laws
Among the significant styles highlighted in "Crimes of Honour" is the legal systemic assistance towards the perpetuation of honor killings. The movie slams the unique arrangements in Jordanian and Palestinian laws which significantly reduce or remove punishments for those who dedicate honor criminal activities. It likewise attacks the prevalent social state of mind that blames victims and excuses killers, depicting a cooling example of victim-blaming culture.

Advocacy and Envisioning Change
The documentary does not just provide the problem however likewise engages actively in advocating modification. It offers a platform to activists working relentlessly to alter laws and social attitudes around honor killings. Their stories of resilience and struggle advocate for better legal defense for ladies and an end to the patriarchal system that validates such criminal activities.

Effect and Reception
"Crimes of Honour" got crucial recognition for its brave expedition of such a controversial and violent custom. It triggered discussions about the immediate need for legal and social change to protect the rights of ladies. Through its impactful storytelling, it raises awareness about the horrific effects of honor culture and inspires audiences to become part of the solution.

Conclusion
"Crimes of Honour" is a compelling documentary that sheds light on the deeply entrenched problem of honor killings in Middle Eastern societies. It conjures up an emotional response from the viewer and initiﬁates important thinking about cultural standards, gender-based violence, and the rejection of standard human rights. It brings an under-discussed issue to the fore, asking audiences to question societal norms and seek justice for the victims of these horrific criminal offenses.

Top Cast

Olympia Dukakis