What Will People Say

What Will People Say

Year: 2018

Runtime: 106 min

Language: Norwegian

Director: Iram Haq

Drama

Sixteen-year-old Nisha struggles to reconcile her Norwegian upbringing with her Pakistani heritage, leading a secret life that clashes with her family's expectations. After her father uncovers her hidden world, he abruptly sends her to Pakistan. There, she must confront a conservative culture that challenges her sense of self and threatens her growing independence, forcing her to find strength and navigate unfamiliar traditions.

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Timeline – What Will People Say (2018)

Trace every key event in What Will People Say (2018) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Nisha's Dual Life

Nisha, a 16-year-old girl in Oslo, leads a double life. She enjoys basketball and socializing with her Norwegian friends while adhering to the strict norms of her traditional Pakistani Muslim household.

Oslo, Norway
2

The Discovery

One night, Nisha's father, Mirza, unexpectedly finds her in a compromising situation with her Norwegian boyfriend, Daniel. The confrontation escalates violently, prompting neighbors to call the police, who become involved in the family dispute.

Nisha's home
3

Placed in Welfare

After the traumatic incident, Nisha is taken to a child welfare agency where she struggles with guilt over the chaos. A counselor reassures her that she is not at fault, but the emotional toll weighs heavily on her.

Child welfare agency
4

The Ultimatum

Mirza, believing that his daughter has lost her virginity, offers her an ultimatum: return home if she agrees to marry Daniel. Nisha, feeling trapped, vehemently rejects his offer, highlighting the widening rift in their relationship.

Nisha's home
5

Forced Relocation

Under immense pressure from family friends, Mirza forces Nisha to move to Pakistan to protect the family's honor. She is left with her aunt, who claims it is for her own good, but Nisha feels uprooted and betrayed.

Pakistan
6

Adapting to Pakistan

Months after her relocation, Nisha learns to adapt to her new life by acquiring domestic skills and attending school. Despite these adjustments, she dreams of freedom and often reminisces about her life in Norway.

Pakistan
7

Seeking Help

Yearning for connection, Nisha reaches out for help through social media, a decision that brings severe consequences. Her aunt discovers her online activities, leading to punishment and the confiscation of her passport.

Pakistan
8

Complicated Feelings

Amidst her struggles, Nisha develops feelings for her cousin, Amir. In their secret meetings, she experiences moments of happiness despite the oppressive environment surrounding them.

Pakistan
9

Caught in a Trap

During a clandestine outing, police apprehend Nisha and Amir, subjecting them to harsh treatment and extortion based on embarrassing photos they took together. This incident deepens Nisha's sense of entrapment.

Pakistan
10

Aunt's Betrayal

Nisha's aunt concocts a story accusing her of seducing Amir, which prompts Mirza's urgent return to Pakistan. He pleads with his sister and brother-in-law to allow Nisha and Amir to marry to quiet the rumors, but they refuse.

Pakistan
11

The Threat

In a climactic encounter, Mirza takes Nisha back to Norway and, in a fit of rage, threatens her life. This moment marks the complete breakdown of trust and love in their father-daughter relationship.

Norway
12

Return to Norway

Upon returning to Norway, Nisha faces her mother’s cold attitude and her father's increased scrutiny. She struggles to reclaim their trust while hiding the recent trauma she experienced.

Norway
13

Arranged Marriage Revelation

Nisha learns of her arranged marriage to a family friend's son in Canada, a situation that starkly contrasts with her own desires. Her father's enthusiasm only intensifies her feelings of betrayal and confinement.

Norway
14

The Escape Plan

Determined to regain control over her life, Nisha resolves to escape the looming arranged marriage. As she sneaks out of her bedroom, a poignant glance exchanged with her father reveals the emotional chasm that has developed between them.

Norway

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 19:35

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Characters, Settings & Themes in What Will People Say

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