Help Fund Shaereh’s Poetic Art Film: Exploring Iranian Women

Hello!

My name is Elif Koyutürk Hazen, and I am a Turkish filmmaker and photographer, passionate about exploring stories that celebrate resilience, identity, and freedom. I’m reaching out to you with a special project that is close to my heart—Shaereh.

THE STORY

Shaereh is a 6-minute poetic short film about an Iranian woman’s journey to reclaim her freedom through the ancient art of Sufi whirling. Shaereh’s story is one of resilience—a testament to the strength of women who have faced repression and hardship, yet find their freedom through movement, spirituality, and defiance.

Shaereh’s life has been marked by loss. Her father was killed by the Iranian government when she was just six years old for helping civilians. Now, through the power of Sufi whirling, Shaereh seeks to reclaim her voice, celebrate her identity, and embrace the freedom that is hers by birthright. The film not only speaks to her journey but to the silenced voices of women in the Middle East and beyond.

WHY THIS FILM?



In a world where women’s voices are too often silenced, Shaereh aims to change the narrative. This film is a celebration of Iranian culture, women’s resilience, and the freedom found through self-discovery. It’s about shedding cultural and personal boundaries and using dance, poetry, and rhythm to break free. Through this project, I want to amplify the voices of women who are too often unheard, showing their strength, their spirit, and their fight for freedom.

Now, more than ever, this story needs to be told. With everything happening in Iran and the world, I want to bring this film to life quickly to share its message of resilience and hope.

VISUAL STRATEGY

The visuals of Shaereh will be as fluid and transformative as the journey itself. We will use natural landscapes, the rhythmic power of Sufi whirling, and symbolic imagery to tell this story of freedom, strength, and spiritual liberation. The film will be intimate, personal, and reflective—drawing viewers into Shaereh’s world as she turns, spins, and reclaims her identity.

OUR TEAM

* Elif Koyutürk Hazen – Writer/Director

* Blake Hendrix – Cinematographer

* Julia Rado – Art Director

* Composer – TBD

BRING THIS VISION TO LIFE

Now, here’s where you come in.

While we are self-funding part of this film, we need your support to complete our production. Any donation helps us meet our fundraising goal, and you’ll be part of a journey that will bring this important story to the screen. With your contribution, we’ll be able to fund locations, equipment, wardrobe, post-production, and festival submissions.

How Your Support Helps:

HOW YOU CAN HELP

* Donate to the campaign—every contribution, no matter the size, helps bring this vision to life.

* Share this page with your friends, family, and network—getting the word out is crucial!

* Like and comment on our social media posts to spread the word.

* We also welcome other forms of support, including volunteering or donating props, equipment, or food for the set.

Thank you so much for supporting this journey and helping us bring Shaereh to life. We can’t wait to share this film with the world and make a difference through the power of storytelling!