Not Without My Daughter

Sayyed Bozorg 'Moody' Mahmoody, an Iranian physician, enjoys a peaceful life in the United States with his American wife, Betty, and their daughter, Mahtob. This idyllic lifestyle reflects their integration into American culture, balancing both Iran’s traditions and their new home.

Moody expresses a desire to reconnect with his Iranian roots by visiting his homeland. Despite her reservations, Betty agrees to a two-week trip, reassured by Moody's promise of a safe return for their family.

Upon arriving in Iran, Moody and Mahtob are warmly welcomed by their relatives. Betty, however, struggles with the unfamiliar Islamic customs, leading to misunderstandings and tension within the family.

During a family gathering, Moody reveals to Betty that he had been fired from his hospital job before their trip. Although he reassures her that he will handle matters, Betty begins to feel the weight of their situation.

Things take a dark turn when Moody’s brother reveals that their passports must be submitted to the airport three days before their flight. Moody then reveals his true intentions: he never meant for them to return to America.

As Moody’s behavior grows increasingly aggressive, he restricts Betty's movements and forbids her from using the telephone. She feels utterly isolated, trapped in a foreign land as tensions rise with the imminent war between Iran and Iraq.

In a moment of hope, Betty receives a secret phone call from her mother, who urges her to seek help at the American Interests Section of the Swiss Embassy. However, she discovers her marriage to Moody has stripped her of consular protection.

Feeling pressure from Moody, who threatens her life if she resists, Betty's situation becomes dire. She devises a plan to convince Moody to move into his brother’s home to create an opportunity for escape.

In a crucial moment, Betty encounters a sympathetic storekeeper who allows her to use the phone. Through him, she connects with Iranian humanitarians, Hossein and his sister, who offer essential support for her escape plans.

As Betty collaborates with Hossein, she learns about potential escape routes while Mahtob adapts to her new school. The supportive school staff help create time extensions, allowing Betty to work on her escape strategies.

Moody's rage culminates when he confronts Betty and Mahtob at school, resulting in a violent outburst. This incident forces Betty and Mahtob back into the oppressive confines of their troubled home.

Months later, Betty receives distressing news about her father’s health, prompting Moody to allow her a visit to the United States on the cruel condition that Mahtob must stay behind. The urgency of the situation mounts.

Seizing an opportunity, Betty feigns a shopping trip for her father while Moody is called away on an emergency. With the support of Hossein, she prepares to escape, utilizing counterfeit documents.

With the help of Iranian smugglers, Betty and Mahtob navigate dangerous checkpoints, successfully traversing hazardous terrains. The anxiety of their perilous journey weighs heavily on them as they dream of freedom.

Finally, Betty and Mahtob find themselves in Ankara, standing before the American Embassy with the flag waving triumphantly. Overwhelmed with relief, they secure their return to America, marking the beginning of a new life.