Women. Justice. Islam.
THE JUDGE provides rare insight into Shari’a law, an often-misunderstood legal framework for Muslims, told through the eyes of the first woman judge to be appointed to the Middle East’s religious courts.
When she was a young lawyer, Kholoud Al-Faqih walked into the office of Palestine’s Chief Justice and announced she wanted to join the bench. He laughed at her. But just a few years later, Kholoud became the first woman judge to be appointed to the Middle East’s Shari’a (Islamic law) courts. THE JUDGE offers a unique portrait of Judge Kholoud—her brave journey as a lawyer, her tireless fight for justice for women, and her drop-in visits with clients, friends, and family. With unparalleled access to the courts, THE JUDGE presents an unfolding vérité legal drama, with rare insight into both Islamic law and gendered justice. In the process, the film illuminates some of the universal conflicts in the domestic life of Palestine—custody of children, divorce, abuse—while offering an unvarnished look at life for women and Shari’a.
“The film showcases Faqih’s tireless fight for justice for women, while illuminating universal domestic conflicts including child custody, divorce and spousal abuse.”
“The film pays tribute to brave, intelligent and inspiring women like Kholoud.”
“The documentary is an inspiration to women... ”
“Disarming and Refreshing”
“Kholoud Al-Faqih is an extraordinary woman”
Become an Ambassador of our Campaign
THE JUDGE challenges stereotypes about Muslims, specifically Muslim women, in the United States and throughout the western world, in addition to educating women about their legal rights. It’s also the first step of a much larger effort: THE JUDGE #Dare2BeBold Campaign. Together, we want to spur conversations, build understanding, and inspire more people everywhere to #Dare2BeBold, step up, and create change.
Donate today and become an ambassador for our campaign. Donations are made through our fiscal sponsor the Hartley Film Foundation and are tax-deductible.
