**Apple TV+ Documentary “Bread & Roses” Highlights the Taliban’s Return to Power and the Strength of Afghan Women**
The takeover of Kabul in 2021 heralded a dramatic transformation in Afghanistan’s narrative, with the Taliban’s resurgence resulting in widespread disruption and the restriction of basic freedoms. Afghan women faced some of the harshest consequences, as their rights, freedom of movement, and opportunities for education and employment were swiftly curtailed. The latest documentary from Apple TV+, *Bread & Roses*, produced by Jennifer Lawrence and Malala Yousafzai, investigates this pivotal moment in contemporary history. The film provides a visceral and moving depiction of the period following Kabul’s fall, centering on the fortitude and bravery of Afghan women as they adapt to life beneath Taliban authority.
### Insight Into the Documentary
Directed by Sahra Mani, *Bread & Roses* offers a compelling investigation into the repercussions of the Taliban’s revival on women’s rights and their means of living. The documentary chronicles the experiences of three women during the inaugural year of the Taliban’s reinstatement, documenting their challenges and acts of resistance as they occur. The film exclusively uses footage shared with the director by those on the ground, delivering an authentic and personal perspective on life in Afghanistan under the new regime.
The title, *Bread & Roses*, embodies the dual aspirations of Afghan women: the right to essential needs like sustenance (“bread”) and the right to dignity, self-determination, and opportunities (“roses”). The film emphasizes the courage of women who, despite significant dangers, persist in their struggle for rights and the future of their nation.
### Narratives of Strength
The documentary presents viewers with stories of women such as Sharifeh, a previous government employee now restricted to her home, and Zahra, a dentist whose practice has turned into a secret haven for activists. These women, among others, are the heart of the film, demonstrating their resolve to oppose oppression and reclaim their independence. In the streets of Kabul, women shout for employment, sustenance, and education, their calls reflecting a universal yearning for freedom and equity.
One notably poignant moment captures a participant lamenting, “May history remember that once upon a time, such cruelty was permitted against the women of Afghanistan.” This expression highlights the necessity of documenting and tackling the hardships faced by Afghan women, whose battles frequently go overlooked by the global community.
### The Wider Landscape
The fall of Kabul and the ensuing U.S. exit from Afghanistan in 2021 faced extensive condemnation as a humanitarian and military setback. The sudden departure left numerous vulnerable demographics, including women, journalists, and activists, at the mercy of the Taliban. While tens of thousands succeeded in escaping, many others remained to confront the grim realities of life under the fresh regime.
For women, the Taliban’s return signaled an immediate reversal of hard-earned rights. Girls’ educational institutions were closed, women were excluded from most occupations, and strict dress codes were imposed. The independent press, which had thrived in the preceding two decades, was suppressed, providing little space for dissent or the elevation of women’s voices.
### Critical Reception and Influence
*Bread & Roses* has launched on Apple TV+ to widespread praise, achieving a flawless 100% critics’ rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film’s stark and unyielding portrayal of the challenges faced by Afghan women has struck a chord with both audiences and critics, serving as both a rallying cry and a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit.
The documentary’s release is particularly pertinent, reminding the global community of the ongoing crisis in Afghanistan and the necessity for ongoing international awareness and support. By bringing the voices of Afghan women to the forefront, *Bread & Roses* guarantees that their narratives are preserved and that their pursuit of justice continues to motivate audiences worldwide.
### A Call to Remember
As the world advances beyond the events of 2021, *Bread & Roses* stands as a powerful reminder of the lasting ramifications of the Taliban’s resurgence. It compels viewers to face the realities that Afghan women endure and to reflect on their part in promoting change. Through its compelling storytelling and unwavering focus on the strength of its subjects, the documentary serves as a tribute to Afghan women’s resilience and their relentless pursuit of both bread and roses.
