Wadjda 2013
Directed by
Haifaa Al-Mansour
Made by
Sony Pictures Classics
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of Wadjda (2013). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
In the 2000s, we dive into the world of Wadjda, a spirited and determined 10-year-old girl living in Riyadh. Her heart is set on a stunning green bicycle that catches her eye every day at the local store on her way to school. Wadjda dreams of racing her friend Abdullah, a boy from her neighborhood, but societal norms frown upon girls riding bicycles, leading her mother to refuse her request for one. The bicycle comes with a steep price tag of SR800 (approximately $213).
With dreams of biking blazing in her mind, Wadjda takes matters into her own hands, devising a plan to earn the money herself. She starts selling mixtapes and hand-braiding bracelets for her classmates, even stepping in as a go-between for an older student, which lands her in trouble with the strict headmistress. Meanwhile, Wadjda’s mother struggles with a difficult job and a temperamental driver, who threatens to abandon her due to repeated delays. In an act of defiance, Wadjda and Abdullah track down the driver to persuade him to continue working for her mother. Abdullah resorting to threats about his uncle’s influence finally convinces the driver to acquiesce.
In the midst of these adventures, Wadjda’s paternal grandmother is intent on finding a second wife for Wadjda’s father, as Wadjda’s mother is unable to conceive more children. This situation fuels Wadjda’s mother’s ire and insecurity, prompting her to don a beautiful red dress in hopes of securing her husband’s loyalty at her brother-in-law’s wedding.
At school, Wadjda decides to join the religion club, eager to compete in a Quran recital contest that boasts a prize of SR1,000 (about $270). While navigating the rigorous expectations of her new role, she witnesses two girls being reprimanded by the headmistress for their adornments. To everyone’s surprise, Wadjda remains on the sidelines, bowing to her new pious image rather than standing up for her peers. Her dedication pays off when her memorization skills impress her teacher, leading her to victory in the competition. The shocking announcement of her intention to purchase a bicycle with her winnings ignites the headmistress’s anger, who ultimately donates the prize to Palestine, against Wadjda’s wishes.
As they navigate their youthful dreams and wishes, Abdullah offers Wadjda his bike, which she refuses, while hinting his desire to marry her in the future. When Wadjda returns home, her father expresses his pride in her achievement, but soon after, Wadjda learns that he has taken a second wife. Feeling a blend of emotions, she watches the wedding ceremony on the rooftop alongside her mother. In a tender moment, Wadjda suggests her mother could purchase the red dress to win back her father, but to her surprise, her mother reveals she has used that money to buy the green bicycle Wadjda desires. The two share a heartfelt embrace as fireworks from the wedding illuminate the night sky.
The following day brings a thrilling transformation for Wadjda as she rides triumphantly down the street on her new bike. The owner of the bike shop looks on with a smile as she races Abdullah, relishing her victory as she crosses the finish line first.
Timeline
Track the key events of Wadjda (2013) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Wadjda's Dream
In the 2000s, we meet Wadjda, a spirited 10-year-old girl living in Riyadh. Her eyes light up every day as she dreams of a stunning green bicycle displayed at a local store, sparking her imagination of racing with her friend Abdullah.
Societal Norms
As Wadjda expresses her desire for a bicycle, societal norms swiftly intervene. Her mother refuses her request, highlighting the cultural restrictions against girls riding bikes, which further fuels Wadjda's determination.
Money-Making Schemes
Refusing to give up on her dream, Wadjda devises plans to earn the SR800 she needs for the bike. She begins selling mixtapes and hand-braiding bracelets for her classmates, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit.
Headmistress Trouble
Wadjda's venture into entrepreneurship lands her in trouble when she acts as a go-between for older students. The strict headmistress reprimands her, challenging Wadjda's growing independence and resilience.
The Driver Persuasion
Amidst her struggles, Wadjda and Abdullah find a way to help Wadjda's mother by convincing their temperamental driver to stay. Abdullah uses his uncle's influence as leverage, showcasing their loyalty and ingenuity.
Family Tensions
Wadjda's grandmother pressures her father to take a second wife, igniting tensions at home. Wadjda's mother, feeling insecure, tries to win back her husband's affection by donning a beautiful red dress for a wedding.
Joining the Religion Club
Wadjda chooses to join the religion club at school, eager to compete in a Quran recital contest. The contest has a significant prize of SR1,000, motivating Wadjda to tackle her new responsibilities with enthusiasm.
The Reprimanding
During her time in the religion club, Wadjda observes two classmates being punished by the headmistress for their appearance. Surprisingly, Wadjda remains silent, struggling between her desire to conform and her sense of justice.
Victory in the Contest
Wadjda's hard work and dedication ultimately pay off as she wins the Quran recital contest. Her accomplishment impresses her teacher, but her plans for the prize money take an unexpected turn with the headmistress’s intervention.
Rage of the Headmistress
Upon announcing her intent to buy a bicycle with her winnings, Wadjda faces the wrath of the headmistress. In a spiteful act, the headmistress donates the prize money to Palestine, crushing Wadjda's dreams.
Abdullah's Confession
Throughout their adventures, Abdullah subtly hints at his intention to marry Wadjda in the future. Wadjda, however, maintains her focus on her own aspirations, leaving their relationship dynamic intact yet unspoken.
Father's Second Marriage
After Wadjda celebrates her achievement with her father, she is struck with shock upon learning about his decision to take a second wife. She watches the wedding from the rooftop, feeling a mix of emotions alongside her mother.
A Mother's Sacrifice
In a touching moment, Wadjda suggests that her mother could buy the red dress to reclaim her father's affection. In a surprising turn, her mother reveals that she has used the money meant for the dress to buy Wadjda the green bicycle.
The Triumph of Riding
The following day, Wadjda rides her new bike proudly down the street, embodying freedom and joy. She races Abdullah and relishes her victory as she crosses the finish line first, fulfilling her dream at last.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring Wadjda (2013) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Wadjda
Wadjda is a spirited 10-year-old girl who embodies resilience and determination in the face of societal restrictions. With an unwavering desire to own a bicycle, she creatively seeks ways to earn money despite the challenges posed by her environment. Her character represents the quest for personal freedom and self-identity in a conservative society.
Wadjda's Mother
Wadjda's mother struggles with societal pressures and personal insecurities, especially regarding her husband's decision to take a second wife. Her character is marked by a desire to support her daughter while grappling with her own challenges. She ultimately showcases strength and love, highlighted by her sacrifice to purchase Wadjda's dream bicycle.
Abdullah
Abdullah is Wadjda's friend and neighbor, representing a supportive ally in her quest for independence. He occasionally displays a protective nature, suggesting a belief in traditional roles, yet he secretly encourages Wadjda's ambitions. His character adds complexity to the themes of friendship and young love.
Setting
Uncover the settings of Wadjda (2013), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
2000s
The 2000s were marked by rapid changes in Saudi Arabia, as the country modernized while still adhering to traditional values. This period saw increasing challenges for women regarding societal norms and rights, influencing the lives of characters in Wadjda. It also highlighted the juxtaposition of youthful ambition against conservative expectations.
Location
Riyadh
Riyadh is the capital city of Saudi Arabia, known for its modern architecture and rich history. This bustling metropolis represents a blend of tradition and innovation, serving as the political and administrative center of the country. The societal norms and cultural practices of Riyadh play a significant role in shaping the lives of its residents.
Themes
Explore the core themes of Wadjda (2013). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Freedom
The theme of freedom is central to Wadjda's journey as she seeks to ride a bicycle, a symbol of independence in a restrictive society. Her determination to challenge societal norms encapsulates the struggle for personal freedom among women in her culture. Wadjda's accomplishments and her eventual triumph symbolize hope and the desire for change.
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Family Dynamics
Family dynamics play a crucial role in Wadjda's story, showcasing the emotional complexities of her relationships with her mother and father. The tension stemming from her father's decision to take a second wife affects the entire family, influencing Wadjda's actions and emotions. Moments of vulnerability reveal the love and support that surfaces amidst familial challenges.
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Youthful Ambition
Wadjda embodies youthful ambition as she defies societal expectations to pursue her dreams. Her enterprising spirit, illustrated through her efforts to earn money for the bicycle, reflects the tenacity of youth. The film celebrates the aspirations of young girls and their desire to carve out their own paths in life.
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