THE WORLD UNSEEN (2007)

Sheetal Sheth, Lisa Ray, and Natalie Becker in writer/director Shamim Sarif’s 2007 romantic drama THE WORLD UNSEEN.

THE WORLD UNSEEN is based on Sarif’s 2001 novel of the same name; it is set in 1950s apartheid-era South Africa and features two women who find love and comfort in each other despite the bigotry and societal expectations that surround them.

Amina (Sheetal Sheth) is a law-defying café owner in Cape Town who dresses in men’s clothing and, much to her grandmother’s dismay, seeks to pave her own way in the world instead of following tradition. Miriam (Lisa Ray) has unquestioningly followed the path her family has laid out for her; she follows the orders of her husband Omar, takes care of their three children, and helps run the family’s rural store. 

The two women first meet at Amina’s café. There is an immediate attraction between them and shortly after Amina has been hired by Miriam’s husband to build a garden for their new home. While Omar is away on “business” (he’s having an affair) Miriam and Amina develop feelings for each other.

THE WORLD UNSEEN

2007. UK/South Africa.

Director: Shamim Sarif

Screenplay: Shamim Sarif

Starring: Lisa Ray, Sheetal Sheth, Parvin Dabas, David Dennis, Grethe Fox, Colin Moss, and Natalie Becker and Nandana Sen

You can find THE WORLD UNSEEN streaming on HereTV (USA) - it’s also available for rent/purchase on AppleTV, Amazon and YouTube - and also available on DVD.