An Iranian mother living in Australia, Shayda finds refuge in a women’s shelter with her frightened 6 year-old daughter, Mona.

Having fled her husband, Hossein, and filed for divorce, Shayda struggles to maintain normalcy for Mona. Buoyed by the approach of Nowruz (Persian New Year), she tries to
forge a fresh start with new and unfettering freedoms.

When a judge grants Hossein visitation
rights, he re-enters their lives, stoking Shayda’s fear that he’ll attempt to take Mona back to Iran.

The film has been directed by Noora Nassari and stars Zar Amir Ebrahimi, Selina Zahednia, Leah Purcell, Jillian Nguyen and Osamah Sami.

SHAYDA is inspired by  the director’s personal experiences inside an Australian women’s shelter living alongside other women and children seeking a life without fear.

SHAYDA has been produced by Vincent Sheehan and Noori Niasari. Cate Blanchett and Andrew Upton are listed amongst the Executive Producers.

SHAYDA will release in cinemas on the 5th October 2023.

Courtesy of Madman Entertainment Sydney Arts Guide has five in season double passes to give away. To win a double pass email editor.sydneyartsguide@gmail.com with SHAYDA PROMOTION in the subject heading. Please provide your postal address in the body of your email. Winners will be advised by email.