Sweden, Switzerland 2026, 52/90 min, HDA Dixit International AB Production
by Zara Arrehed
Matriarchy (wt)
A modern-day love story in a socially exposed suburb of Stockholm, reflecting on identity, the yearning to belong, and finding the strength to do the right thing – unraveling from a secret that, once outed, brings either hope or despair to every generation of a vibrant, tight-knit family.Within a Syrian Christian Orthodox family of over 40 people, mostly women, all living within walking distance from each other, we meet Melissa, a witty connecting dot who looks out for her relatives, for whom church is central to their lives.
But for the past four years, Melissa has navigated the tricky terrain of living a double life in this matriarchy, hiding her Shia Muslim girlfriend Nilo. As being gay is considered a deadly sin within Melissa's community, this has been a premise of their relationship. But one day, Nilo loses patience and demands they either move in together or break up, leaving Melissa torn between the love of her life and the love for her family.
In the process, Melissa is forced to confront her mother, Suheyla, the person she loves above all but who is also one of the most hardcore opponents of both Islam and queerness. When more family members find out, they gather in full-blown contempt and pressure Suheyla to shun her daughter from the warmth of their community. Home becomes a battleground between a fragile mother and a determined daughter trying to change each other's ideas of how to live a dignified life. As Suheyla faces the choice of accepting her daughter’s identity or cutting her out of her life, the film unfolds a drama about betrayal and personal beliefs. In the end, which belief will Suheyla take to heart?
Melissa and Nilo moved in together in the autumn of 2023. In our film, we stay close from the buildup of their decision and during their settling into a new life together. Everyday moments, humor, and tenderness become a shield, shutting out any doubts about their decision. However, Melissa is determined to remain a part of her community, and Nilo is firmly set on becoming friends with Suheyla. Shot intimately and observationally, the film invites us into the reactions and consequences Melissa faces as she breaks free from traditions and demands acceptance for who she is.
Fipadoc (2025), IDFA Forum (2024), Sheffield MeetMarket (2024), IDFAcademy (2022), Doc Forward (2021), Nordisk Panorama (2021)