Human Rights Competition

Desert Brides

Year
2008
Country
Israel
Duration
86’
Director
Ada Ushpiz

This is the story of three Bedouin women, struggling within a polygamous system. Living in the Negev desert in Israel, the story is told through the eyes of a wedding photographer, Miriam Al-Quader. She herself is living under constant fear that her husband will marry "over her" (the expression used when a man chooses an additional wife). The other two women are pushed into marrying already married men, and become "second wives", forced to cooperate within a structure they despise or are afraid of.

Sales:
Hedva Goldschmidt, GO2FILMS, www.go2films.com
Director
Ada Ushpiz

Ada Ushpiz is a director and producer of documentary films. She was a journalist for “Ha’Aretz” newspaper for thirty-two years. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in philosophy and literature, and a Masters Degree in Film, as well as a doctorate in History.

Selected Filmography

Detained (2001), Desert Brides (2003), Blood Engagement (2004)

22 INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS DOCUMENTARY FILM FESTIVAL
 6 — 13 
June 2025
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