By Romey Norton - March 19, 2025
In Rule Breakers, director Bill Guttentag brings to life an incredible true story that is as thrilling as it is inspiring. The film follows a group of young Afghan women who secretly learn computing and robotics to design technology that could help their war-torn country. With Guttentag’s experience in drama and documentary filmmaking, (double Oscar winner) the story is told with a balance of emotional depth and cinematic urgency.
At the heart of the film lies the journey of Roya and four gifted and determined young women, based on the real-life Afghan Dreamers robotics team, who face cultural barriers, security risks, and logistical nightmares simply to gain an education. With limited resources and an uncertain future, they set out to prove that knowledge and perseverance can break even the toughest societal constraints.
Nikohl Boosheri delivers a standout performance as Roya Mahboob, the trailblazing Afghan tech entrepreneur who mentors the girls. Boosheri captures Roya’s quiet strength and fierce determination while maintaining a level of vulnerability that helps you warm up to her as an audience member. Her character proves that smart and stubborn women are a force to be reckoned with.
The young actresses portraying the robotics team bring authenticity and energy to the screen, making their struggles and victories feel all the more real. Haadiya (Sara Malal Rowe), Taara (Nina Hosseinzadeh), Arezo (Mariam Saraj) and Esin’s (Amber Afzali) chemistry as a team is one of the film’s greatest strengths, offering moments of humour, camaraderie, and deep emotion.
The screenplay provides an authentic and personal touch, keeping the dialogue natural and the stakes real. There are lovely and funny scenes where the women discuss their dreams like owning a red racing car and this simple dialogue feels genuine, and at times feels as if you’re watching a documentary. Even though a lot of the script is about maths and science, it’s easy to follow and understand. Giving the audience the ability to think and say “I could do this”.
The film’s pacing keeps the audience engaged, with high-stakes moments that mirror the tension of a sports drama; every step of their journey feels like a battle worth rooting for. The cinematography enhances this tension, capturing both the beauty of Afghanistan’s landscapes and the stark realities these young women face. There are dark undertones in the lighting, contrasting the bright and colourful costumes. The soundtrack, infused with Afghan and international influences, further immerses viewers in the cultural backdrop.
As the story continues, there is pushback and involvement from the Taliban - giving an insight into the battles the girls are facing not only in the film but in real life as the situation for women and girls in Afghanistan continues to devolve.
What makes Rule Breakers stand out in its field is that it goes beyond the usual underdog story. It doesn’t just celebrate the triumph of winning a competition; it highlights the greater victory of access to education and opportunity. The film makes a powerful statement about the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) in empowering marginalized communities, without ever feeling preachy. It’s a true feminist piece, showing the resilience of women, and the power of sisterhood.
Rule Breakers is a film that stays with you long after the credits roll. With strong performances, an engaging story, and an inspiring message, this is a film that deserves to be seen and celebrated. If you’re looking for a movie that will leave you both moved and motivated, Rule Breakers is the perfect choice.
Out now in select cinemas
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