Release Date: March 7, 2025
Starring: Ali Fazal, Nikohl Boosheri, Amber Afzali, Noorin Gulamgaus, and others
Rule Breakers, the highly anticipated film directed by Bill Guttentag, is set to hit theaters on March 7, 2025. The movie tells the real-life story of Roya Mahboob, an Afghan woman who defied societal norms to promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education for girls in Afghanistan.
Inspired by Roya’s courage and determination, Rule Breakers follows her and her team of young Afghan girls as they compete in an international robotics competition, overcoming significant obstacles along the way. The story, though fictionalized for the screen, remains rooted in the authentic experiences of Roya and her sister, Elaha Mahboob, who co-wrote the script.
Director Bill Guttentag shared his deep connection with the story, stating that he was profoundly moved by Roya’s commitment to educating girls in Afghanistan. He emphasized the importance of maintaining authenticity, working closely with Roya and Elaha throughout the filmmaking process to ensure that the film stayed true to their experiences.
The cast of Rule Breakers includes Nikohl Boosheri, an Iranian-Canadian actress who plays Roya, and Noorin Gulamgaus, who was born in Afghanistan and now lives in Toronto. The film also stars Ali Fazal, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, and others. The young actresses portraying the robotics team are Afghan-American and Iranian-American, reflecting the film’s dedication to accurately representing the culture and spirit of the story.
With the current political and social climate in Afghanistan becoming more challenging for women, Rule Breakers has taken on even greater significance. Guttentag noted that the need to tell this story is urgent, as the situation for women in Afghanistan continues to worsen.
This film is not only about a group of young girls who break societal barriers but also about highlighting the importance of STEM education for women across the globe. Through this inspiring narrative, Rule Breakers shines a light on the critical role of education in empowering women and girls in Afghanistan and around the world.
The film’s powerful message is also captured in the new music video, “We Believe in Hope”, featuring Aryana Sayeed. The song underscores the film’s themes of resilience and hope, with a call for global solidarity in supporting girls’ education.
Rule Breakers opens in theaters on March 7, 2025. It’s a film that reminds us all of the power of knowledge and the unyielding strength of those who fight for it.
