Coles refers to the field in documentary work as an “ever-changing entity”, meaning it is constantly changing and evolving (13). This correlates to the theme of home because I believe that home is a place or being surrounded by people that make you feel comfortable, and that is constantly evolving for some people. The documentary “A Move” focuses on Elahe Esmaili, a woman who returns to her hometown but no longer believes in some of her culture’s core beliefs, such as wearing a hijab. Cole additionally states that the field could be “an attitude towards the daily life that surrounds one,” which can be seen through Elahe’s persistence in standing up for what she believes in, refusing to cover her hair properly (14). Although her family and hometown were what Elahe considered home for much of her life, I feel that her place of home has now shifted to where she feels comfortable expressing herself in her own way and being around people who support her in doing so. This can be seen with her relationship with Mr. Hossein, who allows her to dress “however [she] wants to be” and express herself fully without succumbing to cultural norms and familial traditions. I predict that Elahe feels more at home around Mr. Hossein as he does not force a religion on her that she does not connect with, unlike her family. As soon as Mr. Hossein reveals to Elahe that he is open to her own beliefs, even those that do not align with his own, there is a shift in her tone and demeanor that becomes more positive and energetic. As I was watching the documentary, as soon as he revealed this information, I could send a release of tension from Elahe as she finally felt seen and accepted for who she truly is, without needing to compromise her beliefs or identity to please others. Below is the scece I am referencing:
Elahe Esmaili, “A Move”, New York Times
Elahe’s home is constantly changing and evolving as her beliefs and passions also change and grow, supporting Coles’ idea that the field is not static but constantly changing by the experiences and choices made within it.
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