Gold Coast Premiere Honors Survivors and Highlights Ongoing Struggle Against Domestic Violence
Gold Coast, Australia – In a powerful fusion of art and advocacy, human rights barrister-turned-filmmaker Sabrina Khan is bridging continents with her award winning film SEEMA, set to premiere on the Gold Coast on November 1st. The screening coincides with SEEMA Day, a national day declared by the United States named after Khan’s film to honor survivors of domestic violence and raise awareness for those still trapped in abusive situations.
Khan, a decorated High Court barrister and recipient of the 2025 New South Wales Human Rights Medal, channeled her own survival of domestic violence into the film. SEEMA-a raw, unflinching narrative-has already garnered 14 international awards and headlines in the Manhattan Herald, Fiji Sun, and London Daily Post. Its success underscores Khan’s unique ability to merge her legal expertise with cinematic storytelling.
The film unites Bollywood-American actress Reena Shah (“Julia” on HBO Max, “India Sweets & Spices” on Hulu, & “Reframed Next Gen Narratives: The Adventures of Robin Hood” on HBO Max) who flew from Los Angeles to Australia to join the project and acclaimed Australian actor Morrison James (Death’s Sonata – Netflix & Amazon Prime. House of Bond – Nine Network Australia).
Shah, known for her roles in cross-cultural dramas, praised Khan’s vision: “Seema isn’t just a film-it’s a movement. Sabrina’s courage and clarity demanded that I be part of this.” James echoed the sentiment, calling the project “a masterclass in turning pain into purpose.”
Behind the scenes, Khan collaborated with New York University screenplay mentor John Warren and honed her craft at Australian Film Central, crediting them for her skills all the while giving credit for her faith in God and His favor for her rapid rise in filmmaking. The diverse crew, spanning the U.S., France, Vietnam, Syria, Iraq, the Middle East, India, and Australia, reflects Khan’s commitment to global storytelling.
Khan’s journey is as compelling as her film. After advocating for human rights as a high court barrister, having worked with New South Wales Parliament and the Queensland Brisbane office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, she pivoted to film in 2024. “Art transcends borders,” Khan said. “With Seema, I wanted to give survivors a voice that echoes louder than legislation.”
The U.S. declaration of SEEMA Day speaks to the film’s impact with English Barrister resident in Fiji Iqbal Khan noting, “Sabrina’s work transcends screens-it’s a diplomatic tool for social change.”
SEEMA Day, which stands for “See My Abuse,” is not just a celebration of survival, but a stark reminder of the ongoing crisis of domestic violence.
It is a day to honor those who have escaped abusive situations, but also to recognize and support those who are still trapped, often in silence.
For Sabrina Khan, the screening is both a triumph and a call to action: “SEEMA is dedicated to those who have survived, and to those who are still fighting. It’s a reminder that we see you, we hear you, and we must continue to work towards a world where everyone is safe.”
Event Details:
The premiere will take place at HOTA (Home of The Arts) on the Gold Coast in Australia on November 1st, with proceeds supporting Proverbs 31 Films passion projects. Limited tickets are available and can be purchased here:
