Watch Small Things, Big Things

Small Things, Big Things is a heartwarming documentary film, directed by Italian filmmaker and anthropologist, Mihaela Mihai. The film chronicles the daily struggles of a group of women in India as they fight against patriarchy and social norms to create better living conditions for themselves and their families. The film opens with a breathtaking aerial shot of Mumbai, showcasing the sprawling city in all its vibrant chaos. We are then introduced to our protagonist, Jane Sahi, a journalist and community activist, who has dedicated her life to empowering women in the rural areas of India.

Through her work, Jane has come to understand that small changes can make a big difference in the lives of these women, and she sets out to document their struggles and achievements on film. The first half of the film follows her as she travels to different villages, meeting women from different castes and backgrounds, and hearing their stories.

One of the major themes of the film is the concept of micro-credit, which is a system of small loans given to women who are unable to access traditional banking systems. Jane works with local NGOs to distribute these loans, which are often used to start small businesses or support existing ones.

We see women like Vaijaya, who uses her loan to start a pickle-making business, and Basanti, who opens a small tea stall. Through these entrepreneurial endeavors, they are able to earn a steady income and become more independent. We also see the devastating impact that poverty can have on families, as well as the inherent sexism that exists within the culture.

The second half of the film shifts gears slightly as we follow the political campaign of a young woman named Vaishali, who is running for a seat on the village council. Although her campaign is ultimately unsuccessful, her story highlights the challenges that women face when trying to enter politics in India. We see the harsh realities of corruption and the power dynamics that exist within the community.

Throughout the film, we are presented with an intimate and empathetic look at the lives of these women. We see their struggles, their fears, and their triumphs. The camera work is stunning, as we are given sweeping vistas of the Indian countryside alongside intimate close-ups of the women themselves.

The storytelling is powerful and affecting, drawing the viewer in and allowing us to experience the struggles and joys of these women alongside them. Small Things, Big Things is a celebration of the human spirit and a reminder that even the smallest actions can make a difference in the world.

Overall, Small Things, Big Things is a must-see film for anyone interested in social justice, women's rights, or simply great documentary filmmaking. It is a powerful, thought-provoking, and ultimately uplifting portrayal of the resilience and determination of the human spirit.

Small Things, Big Things is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 7 minutes.