The Recess

The Recess (2020) is inspired by the tragic death of Sahar Khodayari known as Blue Girl in Iran. Sahar Khodayari also known as Blue Girl was an Iranian fan of Esteghlal F.C. In March 2019, she attempted to enter Azadi Stadium disguised as a man to watch a match played by the team, against the national ban on women at such events. On 2 September the same year, she was told by the Islamic Revolutionary Court of Tehran that she may face a six-month prison sentence. After leaving court, she committed suicide by self-immolation in front of the building. She died a week later of her injuries. Khodayari's self-immolation has generated much debate in Iran about the government's restrictions on women.