Throughout history, the tide of change has come from powerful women who have fought against the wave of oppression. Based on a collection of true stories, Hive is no different and presents a bold tribute to women who, day by day, are fighting to better not just their own lives, but those of the world around them.
Directed by Blerta Basholli, Hive revolves around Fahrije, a woman whose husband has been missing since a war in Kosovo. Whilst grappling with the loss, her family are also struggling financially so Fahrije decides to earn money by beekeeping and making her own pastes to sell in the village, which is practically forbidden for “waiting wives.” in order to provide. Soon, the men turn hostile as they disagree with the way she is trying to empower herself and other women. As struggling to keep herself and her family afloat, she has to battle a community who wishes to see her fail.
Basholli’s debut feature is a complex and compelling piece about the striking power of resilient women. The sun-soaked cinematography from Alex Bloom adds heat to this striking slow-burn piece that pays off greatly in the end.
Lead actress Yllka Gashi is stunning as Fahrije as she faces the horrors of the men in the village. From propositions of sex to being banned from merely walking into a café, the insidious nature of patriarchal prejudice is paramount here. It even seeps into her children, who shoulder the generational trauma of violent and abusive men. Yet Fahrije is steeled enough to rise above it in this paced and well-structured drama
The determination of our lead to better the world for herself, the women around her, and the women who will come after here. Hive is a breath-taking film that will buzz and hum around your mind long after viewing. It is a testament to the sweet and strong force of women who wish to change their station.
