Parents' Guide to In Her Hands

Movie PG-13 2022 93 minutes
In Her Hands movie poster image.

Common Sense Media Review

Sabrina McFarland By Sabrina McFarland , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 14+

Poignant political docu about Afghan activist; violence.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 14+?

Any Positive Content?

  • In Her Hands Trailer
  • Zarifa Ghafari meeting and speaking with the public.
  • Zarifa Ghafari addresses the public at a podium.
  • Zarifa Ghafari seated in an office.
  • Zarifia Ghafari as a passenger inside a car.

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What's the Story?

IN HER HANDS is a documentary about Zarifa Ghafari, the mayor of Afghanistan's Maidan Shahr who shares her personal and professional story of survival through two years of firsthand interviews filmed during war within the country. The politician is one of the nation's first women and youngest ever to hold the job at the age of 26. Ghafari is also a champion of Afghan women's rights and encourages education at all levels for girls in her homeland.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

This is an inspiring documentary about the determination of a young Afghan citizen in the face of adversity. After witnessing the horrors of war while walking to school, In Her Hand's Zarifa Ghafari says that she was told by her military general dad not to go anymore. But, she decides to attend school secretly after he leaves home for work and Ghafari continues to fulfill a lifetime dream to make her parents proud.

Ghafari earns two college degrees, pursues a public service career, and advocates for Afghanistan's future. "Drop your weapon and take up a pen," she says. "Education is the key to a country's development. This is the battle between ignorance and knowledge, the battle between light and dark."

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the perseverance of Zarifa Ghafari in In Her Hands. How does she also demonstrate communication, courage, and teamwork? Why are these important character strengths?

  • Education is considered by Ghafari to be a major component in the growth of a country and its future. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

  • Ghafari is appointed as Maidan Shahr's mayor. Would you consider a career in politics? Why or why not?

  • How does this political documentary compare to others that you've seen?

Movie Details

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