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Soraya (Mozhan Marno) faces her accusers

As a Christian woman watching this film, I was grieved for my sisters overseas, where their gender, lack of rights, and higher incidence of poverty (women make up 70 percent of the world's poor) make them so vulnerable. It makes me grateful to be a woman today in the U.S., where we have unprecedented rights and influence. It makes me want to use these rights and this influence mightily. It prompts gratitude for a God who, when he walked this earth, counter-culturally reached out to women with compassion, respect, and love.  

And it makes me feel challenged and inspired by Micah 6:8's command to act justly and by Proverbs 31:8, "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those who are perishing." Because, of course, knowing about injustices such as that of Soraya M. is only powerful when we do something with it. And when we do the important work of wrestling with the question of what we do in the face of injustice toward another—and then follow our just and compassionate God with our response.

Talk About It

1. What emotions do you feel as the closing credits roll? What next steps might you need to take? (For ideas, visit thestoning.com.)
2. Besides the stoning, there are many other injustices shown throughout the film. List those who do wrong in the film as well as their sin. Which of these sins trip you up most?
3. Think about the importance of the human voice throughout the film—both as a force for good and a force for bad. Does this make you think about the power of your own voice any differently?
4. Do you think the film had to be as graphic as it was to get people to understand and care about this human rights issue?
5. Are you surprised by the women's rights issues shown in this film? What can you do to show more respect and justice to the women in your life—and in our world?

The Family Corner

The Stoning of Soraya M. is rated R for a disturbing sequence of cruel and brutal violence, and brief strong language. Take the R rating very seriously. Due to the violence—a graphic depiction of Soraya's stoning—many adults will find the movie disturbing, let alone children. It's especially disturbing to watch Soraya's husband, father, and even sons hurl insults and stones at her. If you want your mature teens to know about such atrocities in the world, see the film and tell them about it.

Photos © Roadside Attractions

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A Passion for Women's Rights	Printer view
Jim Caviezel and Steve McEveety, who played critical roles in The Passion, expose human rights violations in Iran through their new film, The Stoning of Soraya M.