“Seema” Premieres on the Gold Coast: A Powerful Film Addressing Domestic Violence
Home of the Arts (HOTA) on the Gold Coast played host to the premiere of “Seema” on November 1st, marking a significant moment for Australian cinema and a powerful statement against domestic violence. The event drew a distinguished crowd, including film industry professionals and representatives from a prominent Indian network, underscoring the film’s international appeal and relevance.
“Seema” features a compelling cast, led by Bollywood American actress Reena Shah, known for her previous work with Manisha Koirala, and Australian actor Morrison James. Directed by Sabrina Khan, an international human rights lawyer and recipient of the 2025 NSW Human Rights Medal and a Qld Community Service Award, the film promises a nuanced exploration of a sensitive subject. The premiere was particularly well-attended by artists from the Indian community, highlighting the film’s cultural resonance.
Reena Shah shared insights into her portrayal of Seema, a character trapped in a cycle of domestic violence: “It was essential for me to embody the internal psychology of someone trapped in a cycle of domestic violence in a way that felt truthful, layered, and immediately recognizable. I relied on subtle physical choices: the way Seema holds her body, how her breath changes, how her eyes avoid or search for connection, and the small, instinctive movements of someone constantly assessing danger. I wanted the audience to feel her story.”
Shah also emphasized the importance of collaboration: “Our director Sabrina Khan and I spent time aligning on the emotional arc of Seema’s journey. With the actor Morrison James playing George, communication and consent were essential. The crew also made key decisions that strengthened the impact: keeping sets closed for vulnerable scenes, adjusting lighting to mirror Seema’s internal world, and allowing space between takes to reset.”
Morrison James reflected on his preparation for the role: “I read quite a few various articles and interviews on the subject from both the victims and perpetrators. I also accessed and watched some documentaries.” He also spoke about the emotional challenges on set: “I would have to say when my screen wife (Reena) became emotionally affected as the story progressed. We both spent genuine time together getting to know each other as real people and chatting about any possible boundaries each other may have had on set while we were filming.”
Director Sabrina Khan on Bringing “Seema” to Life mentioned that “my work as an international human rights lawyer has provided me with a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances of domestic violence. I wanted to ensure that “Seema” was not just a film, but a platform for raising awareness and promoting empathy. We worked closely with advocacy groups and survivors to ensure the story was told authentically and respectfully.
Every scene was crafted with the intention of honouring the experiences of those who have lived through similar situations. I hope “Seema” will spark conversations and encourage people to recognize the signs of abuse, offer support to those affected, and challenge the societal norms that perpetuate violence. Ultimately, I prayerfully hope the film empowers survivors to seek help and find their path to healing.”
In a remarkable tribute to the film’s powerful message, the USA has officially named November 1st “Seema” Day, dedicated to standing in solidarity with individuals trapped in abusive relationships and unable to leave. This recognition underscores the film’s potential to make a lasting impact on the fight against domestic violence.
