". . . presents a fascinating array of film narratives and characterizations. Her critical interpretations reveal how films can reflect socio-political transitions the voices of filmmakers add authority to the text, as does her personal background in both Islamic and Western cultures. Dönmez-Colin shows how cinema may serve either to protect cultural values or to contest them, describing a complex scenario where womens seemingly passive role in perpetuating traditions may be balanced by their courage in defying them . . . underscores the dynamic interplay between cinema and real life in countries where, literally in some cases, women were once dying to go to the movies." - Times Literary Supplement"This is one of the few film books I actually want to read. A very necessary examination of Islamic cinema which praises its bolder spirits and doesnt hesitate to criticise those who censor and condemn them." - Derek Malcolm, chief film critic, London Evening Standard"The reader is referred to the excellent books that will provide some of this information and insights . . . Women, Islam and cinema, and Turkish Cinema: Identity, Distance and Belonging, both by Gönül Dönmez-Colin, are wonderful resources." - Javed Mohammed, Culture Wars