In apartheid-era South Africa lines were drawn between black and white, male and female, what was expected and what was desired. This film showcases many characters, good and bad, that define the explosive issues of the time, but mostly, it’s the story of two women that dare to find something special between them in a world that’s hellbent on making decisions for them.

Writer/director Shamim Sarif sheds new light on an often-covered scenario by showing what lies in the harsh brightness of reality but also allowing us to glimpse what resides in the mysterious shadows of dreams. He conveys the violent ignorance of an important time in history and still allows the softest, most candid emotional moments to shine through in a way that makes the audience feel almost voyeuristic in witnessing them.

Grade: A+

The World Unseen releases in select theaters Nov. 7.