Let’s not forget the good Iranian people that helped her and her daughter escaped. Without them Betty and her Mahtoud would not have had make it back home.
@@eileenprose8472 thank you for this interview Eileen, i watched it so often, its an incredible lifestory and you are a great interviewer, asking the right questions at the right time.
She didn't want to go, but she was more afraid that he would take Mahtob and go without her and Iran wouldn't have let her in after that. If she went with him, then she could keep hold of her daughter.
@@opheliasgrace her daughter was American born though and had a U.S. Passport , if he took her that would have been kidnapping but you're right at least with the Mom there she could keep an eye on her , which was smart as she got to see first hand what he would do and made the right decision to flee from the abuse.
I dated an Arab man right after college. When he brought up marriage, this kind of scenario came to my mind - even though it was years before Not Without My Daughter came out. Women in ANY free country that marry men from far less free countries are taking a HUGE risk. I didn't do it. Take heed, ladies. The message is very REAL.
@@diva777 Iran is not Arab. It's predominantly ethnic Persian (like half of Los Angeles). They are not even religious outside of Iran. This movie was a total propaganda hit piece.
@@ciaronsmith4995 rubbish on all fronts. Persia has not existed officially since 1935. They are Iranians. Secondly, Muslims do follow their Religion ( irrelevant where they are). Good luck trying to convince the World otherwise.
You would be surprised what you'll do as a mother. My mother was a meek woman at 5'2" and 109lbs, but when protecting us you would think she was a lion ❤
I was raised by a muslim woman and grew up in a muslim country. I can testify that everything described in the book is the pure truth and I witnessed some of the events described with my own eyes. Throughout the book I didn't fell the slightest or tiniest bit of exageration. Life and rules are really how they are described !
@@rainer1980 what??? Lying to dupe a woman and hold her hostage? Where is that allowed in any religion? I am assuming you know tonnes of Muslim and have seen this practiced firsthand because I have yet to. Abusive men or toxic in-laws aren't unique to Muslim countries sadly.
@@Niceonthefrenchriviera im sorry to tell you that ur lyingi come from a muslim country and i can tell you i xan never be with an iranian man so how can you say that muslim are like that this is crazy iran is so extreme btw i don’t cover my hair and im married to a latino so don’t exaggerate plz
This movie opened my eyes about marrying into different cultures. The importance of really understanding where people come from and how they are raised and to dig deeper.
Marrying into different cultures can be an enriching experience. However it must be done with understanding, trust and a deep knowledge of the person you are marrying. He may have been a good husband and father in some ways but it's obvious by her fears before they went to Iran that there were already issues that caused her not to have full trust in him, and rightly so. This book/movie really drove home two things to me...always trust in your gut instincts, if something feels wrong it normally is, and when traveling know your rights or lack there of. If you won't have rights in a certain country than don't let anyone ever convince you it'll be okay to travel there.
Similar cases have taken place at the hands of some of my countrymen. What would happen is they would go abroad, marry a local lady, some for proforma, some for love, but then when they had a child, the men would suddenly become "religious" and abduct their child back to their native country knowing we don't extradite people. Their excuse 2as they didn't want their child growing up in immoral west and to ensure they are raised as Muslims and the same moral and honor code that especially girls have to adhere to, they abduct them. Some mothers came here but our patriarchal and corrupt system ensured they could not win despite hiring lawyers, taking it to courts (our legal system is notoriously in favor of males), crying, begging, initiating mediation etc. So my advice would be to be cautious, and really get to know the background of the man, the laws, the religion the system, and how to ensure your rights as a mother/wife and also really have an open talk about your mutual expectations and especially child rearing and your identity to avoid such situations. Mixed marriages can go either way. My impression is such incidents are rare now a days.
@@BrandyTexas214 not at all just have been there many times and it is a beautiful place you have the right to your opinion but try and really find out what is going on over there I recommend you watch some Iran vlogs
That movie was total propaganda! Iranians are not even religious outside of the government and anyone who has watched Shahs of Sunset, know Persians are not religious....
@@EmilyPetersenHomemaking Amelia. When a movie like this comes out it's only mean to do one thing - demonize a country. The US media has been in conflict with Iran the day the Shah left. These movies are all supposed to condition people's minds in the event of a conflict and garner sympathy for anti-Iran countries in the region (ie, Israel). Always look at the big picture. How many Anti-Iran films came out in the 70's when the Shah was in power? None. Do the math. This movie was highly insulting to Iranians, totally fictitious in its depiction of Persians/Iran, and at best, is a one-off isolated incident that isn't prevalent in what in Iran, arguably the most sophisticated country and peoples in the West Asian Region. Watch Shahs of Sunset instead. That's modern.
@@ciaronsmith4995 Betty Mahmoody herself said not to judge all of Iran just for the people who did that to her though. It's too bad people watched this movie and thought all Iranians were like that. I work with Iranian coworkers and students every day at my job and they are very lovely people.
@@EmilyPetersenHomemaking That's just the thing. Doesn't matter what she says, this movie made life like hell for Iranians in the 80's. People aren't nuanced. They look at a movie and draw conclusions. They aren't going to search for something Mahmoody said on the side. Anyone making a film is fully aware of that. It was intended to demonize which is totally disgraceful. It's also fictitious in its portrayal of 99.9% of Persians. Just really cringe imo.
I can't believe anyone has the gall to criticize this woman. This actually all happened to her. She even says that she's not speaking of ALL of Iran or the culture. She's speaking her truth. And she's so non judgmental after it all. To judge a woman whose been through what she has in any way except as a brave, determined, loving, protective mother is just wrong. May God + Allah Bless You, Betty Mahmoody
that's because we live in a PC world that wants to discount actual history and events, because they haven't been through anything like that. They just want to judge...
@Akshay Natu And the real Moody Mahmoudy was a chubby, average balding guy who didn't even have a beard unlike Alfred Molina in the film. The real Moody even tried make a documentary before he died to cover up what a bastard he was, and you can find it on RUclips titled, "Without My Daughter." I think it's worth watching to hear it in his own words, but I have no sympathy for him whatsoever.
@@lisawentworth6831 this is from the 80's man, PC was nothing like it us now! atm if you say that there are only 2 genders, you are literally at risk losing your job, and having an angry mob of activists at your house while national media smears you out ...
the fact that she still wants her daughter to think positively of her father after all he did really shows how emotionally mature this woman is. so inspiring
She made her daughter to hate her father so much that she did not want to see the father anymore even though the father insisted and desperate to see her. like mother like daughter
My feeling is she is (or was at the time of this video) still conditioned to think that “he wasn’t that bad”, “he was a wonderful husband”, “I elicited him beating me”, as many women who suffer abuse are.
Evelina Russo She said later on that she had to come to terms with the fact that the man she loved died (metaphorically speaking) when he went to Iran and that they were having the funeral. After that, in order to help Mahtob--and probably herself, too--to not be eaten up with hatred and bitterness toward her father and to be able to forgive him, she had Mahtob focus on all the good things her father had been for her. And, believe me, Mahtob needed help, because she was wishing that her dad was DEAD and, later on, she wished that she could see him, but only if he were behind bars where he couldn't hurt her anymore. Mahtob and Betty spent their life pretty much on the run from Moody even AFTER they got back to America, and watching over their shoulders wherever they were. Mahtob has written her own book, now. It's called My Name is Mahtob, by Mahtob Mahmoody. I just finished reading it and it is a very fascinating read!
This interviewer deserves an award!!! She listened, she was sensitive yet though. And the best part is she corrected her no woman deserves to be hit…. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
When the movie came out, I took my teenage daughter to go see it & told her to be very careful who she dated & married, as it could happen to anybody & I'm glad this movie made a difference!
@@paulinabakhshayesh6644 I didn't teach my daughter to Hate Anybody, I wanted her to know that outside the US Women Do NOT Have Any Rights!! & yes she is aware men in America are just as abusive! But Women do have rights!
I dont think Betty meant it that way... she probably should've said, she initiated in Moody and the family's eyes - then she had to play the long game to avoid and prevent more beatings.
I took my daughter to this movie. I wanted her to understand how important it was to never let anyone take her away from her mother for any reason & also to help her understand how strong a mother’s love is for their child, especially their daughter.
I read her book twice. I felt Betty's pain throughout the book as she depicted her tortuous journey. Any American woman who marries a foreigner whose culture is so radically different needs to be careful about going overseas with him must, and she must proceed with caution. There are too many horror stories. She is blessed to have escaped.
@@daphnesmith1686 I just watch a worst case scenario. Parents of Kayla Mueller who was captured held, sexually molested, tortured and killed by the terrorist that President Trump had killed by drone. She was a humanitarian! Worked with Doctors Without Borders! So sad!
I think just the fact that her daughter was American born helped , if she had an Iranian Passport the Father could have used that against them, thank goodness they made it out though, so sad he changed into a monster, what a brave woman she is for getting out, that took some stones.
Revolution made Iranians guilty for turning their back on Islam ..and I don't need to mention that how badly Iranians were being treated in us during that time ..moody wasn't able live in America he had to go back to his country but he didn't wanted to leave his wife and kid so he choose the violent way which was wrong...but still he was a good husband and Father...just time wasn't in favor of them
@@bloombloom271 u can't ignore the fact that he was fired from his job ...he was being bullied and stalked cause of his nationality...he didn't had any choice rather than going back to Iran ...and he wanted his wife and daughter with him so he become abusive which is unacceptable but still america was reason for a lot of Iranian man's to become monster for their English wife's !
@@syedashafiyahassan5905Don't get me wrong but I was bullied too but i controlled myself not to do any harm to anyone.Espefially my family even though I don't have family yet.Abuse.leaves trauma that can't be healed.I was abused by my mother's boyfriend who kept telling people that i was a liar thief and what not.The truth was that he abused me and mother to the point of insanity almost.All that bcs his mother.left him.He was in therapy but he started doing it again today blurping slurs at me for checking on my dogs.I spent whole autumn 2023 eating chips for breakfast and sleeping in backyard.He didn't allow me to use toilet but when I did he made fun of me.
She said clearly: we are naive about other cultures. We need to get better informed before getting into a relatipnship with a person from another culture.
This is so true...especially of America...e.g the Afghanistan fiasco of a war should never have happened/continuesd if people learn to at the very least try to educate ourselves about other people's cultures, religion etc and accept it for what it is, respect it and mind your business insteadof trying to change it.
@@TheFourSistersShow I am not so sure what you are trying to imply with some of the things you said. But we widely respect them and little do we want to change them in comparison to the intention THEY have to change the west. Their aim (even in their sources, or maybe especially in their sources) is to establish Islam all around the world and to convert us all, EVEN BY MEANS OF TERROR (QURAN/HADITH). Most of our values mean corruption for them.
Yes. She is right. I marry a non practicant muslim and it turned out of 10 years of sufferance. Those cultures are to different and women are not treated well and kids too
Bless her, such strenght a true survivor. In 1985 I met a man from Pakistan. He treated me like a queen, so different from my previous American boyfriends. We eventually married only about 5 months after we met. He was Muslim and I was Lutheran, but we had a big church wedding and I never saw him practicing his religion. The only weird thing was that he was so scared of me getting pregnant and thank God I didn’t or I may have had the same story. Two years after a story book marriage I came home from work one evening to what then was the worst night of my life. He tells me that his family in Pakistan, who I believed knew we were married, had found a ‘wife’ for him and that I had to divorce him or else! This was after 2 years of marriage and one year after he got his green card. I tried to refuse but he had changed back in a serious muslim and after a while told me that if I wanted to remain healthy I better file for divorce immediately. Thins got scarey so I did as he demanded. He left to Pakistan to marry this woman who I later found out he’d known almost all his life. He was engaged to her when he came to America to study avionics. So the truth was he used me to get that green card. It took me a long time to emotionally recover. Despite what he did I still loved him because our marriage was a good one until the truth came out.
That is an incredible story. Thank you for sharing that. I’m so sorry that happened to you, I guess you just never really know someone. I’m praying for your continued recovery.
I was there the same time she was there I didn't Escape as she had you I was there for 10 years after the revolution during the war American hostage crisis I escaped because my husband was abusive. I was eight and a half months pregnant with an almost two year old and a 10 year old and the same man that helped her get out of the country help me he was an American man
@@naima8392 they are not muslim. They are a sectarian group of shiite or shiah. Different than islam. Their Qur'an and pillar of religion are different than Islam. Their religion encourage contract marriage just to allow men to have sex with prostitute or any female for the sake of sex. .sicko They have this idea that they are the highest top the greatest the smartest where race are concern. They proud to call themselves Persian. They believes in imams ..which not prophet
Babab Gigirl Yes you may be correct. I remember the temporary marriage contract that is part pf their practice, which allows men to have a temporary marriage just for their sexual needs.that is contrary to Islam.
I saw this movie when I was living overseas with a very abusive spouse. It gave me courage,being 5 months pregnant with twins, to “kidnap” my ten older children , go to the US Embassy, and return to the United States. My gratitude to Ambassador Michael Armacost for rendering “usual and normal consular services” as he termed it. May God richly bless him for his help. It made a tremendous difference in my children’s lives.
@@Rayray_ray_ray @jacquelineb3475 Exodus from overseas continued. The children and I settled in rural Arizona, the twins were born three months later. Daddy showed up from overseas with his “posse” , a female cousin, an attorney and a bodyguard, staying with him at the scottsdale camelback resort for the next year as he filed for divorce And 15 months later was given custody of the 10 eldest children. I was given custody of the twins, who were 11 months old. I did not see my older children for 25 years. Three of my sons now live in Australia, and I have not seen them since 1985. The good side of it is all of my children have beautiful, loving families most of them have told me that they forgive their father. One son who was two years old when his father gained custody, said he forgave his father, but even though his father had been dead for several years, he still had nightmares. One of my daughters said that my courage in leaving, gave her the hope that someday she also would be able to escape.
It's sad that she said basically that she might have been the cause of the abuse a little,glad the interviewer said no. No human being should ever be abused in anyway physically,mentally,emotionally period.
I see your point. But I took it to mean that, he was an abusive man, and she knows what triggered his abusive side. That’s not an excuse at all. That is just to say that if you are in a situation where someone becomes abusive, you learn what their triggers are. It’s the best way to out smart them. Clearly she knew his behavior was wrong, but being in a different culture, she almost had to accept it in order to escape it.
So she wasn't forced to go to Iran.. She can say she was but nobody put a gun to her head.. And she goes there knowing how this culture treats women and she is shocked that she is treated badly and is forced to stay and then has to escape and she is an inspiration?? So she doesn't have to take any responsibility for being an adult and going there in the first place? A place with no American embassy.. A place where women are second class citizens..but what a hero 🙄🤦♀️
I know someone who married a Nigerian and waa held hostage. A woman helped her escape. She slept in a field and ran on the tarmac reaching the plane with nothing but what she had on. She didn't even have her passport. The US and those at the airport were very sympathetic response to her plight. ❤ the US.
Red like wine I think 12 years. I think the four years thing was how long she knew him before they even got married which is crazy to think you knew someone for 16 years and they never behaved like this and then it was like this radical change I mean I know she said he got a little weird there during the Iranian revolution in 1979 but I mean the story is just incredible I wish they would remake the movie or something. We’re not actually, because they always ruin it remakes and sequels are just never as good as the original LOL
Yes just like th eff ex husband and I could say his name but I won't slander his name but he slander my name on social media and all of the multiple people that he gets involved with and the court's took the ex side because of MONEY because I asked the court's for joint custody but they give him head of custody wow
Vicky Landing The courts and lawyers f#cking suck. They are evil and always take the assh#le father’s side. There is no justice. The court always finds in favor of the guilty in these types of cases. Hope they rot in Hell.
That movie was total propaganda! Iranians are not even religious outside of the government and anyone who has watched Shahs of Sunset, know Persians are not religious....
@@jordansjul Wrong. Iranian refers to the branch of peoples from Iran. Persians are one branch. Persian is a race from Iran. There are also Iranian-Armenians for example. They are fantastic people.
She is so ahead of her time in this interview. What happened to her was absolutely terrible and people already have such a negative perspective on the middle east because of war, terrorism, and situations such as this. The fact that she says because her husband and his family were radical or fundamentalist Muslims doesn't mean all Iranian people are too, shows her emotional and general maturity. So many people back in this time would never be as open minded as her. And through everything her husband put her through, she still encourages her daughter to think positively about him shows her strength and integrity. What an amazing woman. So much respect for Ms. Betty 💓🙌🏼
I'm not sure where today you could find the book. I'd try a thrift store, online or somewhere like that. I imagine you should be able to find it, it's one that left a profound impression on me. A book I couldn't put down. Best of luck and hope that helps
This movie was so good I remember watching it as a kid and getting scared they would get caught and have to go back but I’m glad everything turned out good for them in the end.
When my wife and I first watched this movie we just could not believe it ,had to watch it again for it to sink in,and like another comment when she saw the Turkish Flag at the end my wife cried what a brave lady you are Betty glad you told your story ,when we lent our daughter the DVD she gave it back and promised to be very very careful who she got married to,I know alot of mixed marriages have worked and have been very happy,but some who's culture is worlds apart from ours ends up like Betty's,plus we have same culture marriages that have ended in tragedy so what is the answer.?
I also watched this movie as a kid. But being Persian/Iranian, I watched it with different emotions than you and many others had. I was mainly thinking of how Hollywood can do such a great job at demonizing an entire country and culture.
I did read the book at the beginning of the 90s (all my friends did it too!). I was shocked. I suffered with Betty and her sweet Mahtab. I saw the movie also, but since I read the book, I started to watch Muslim culture with other eyes. Betty is such a strong woman. A proud American woman, born and rised in Democracy and Free. Thank you Betty for share your story with the world.
Alot of people don't realize that Iran never used to be like this before it was taken over and made an Islamic state ,it was once a very free country just like the united states .The women could dress in regular clothes and not have to wear hijabs and cover themselves up..
Those who are really interested in knowning the truth about this family can read the book entitled “The False Heroine and Her Ridiculous Bully: The Story of Betty and Dr Mahmoody by His Coauthor,” found on Amazon.
Powerful film that haunts me to this day! A must see that is more timely today than it was when it first came out. Sally Fields is remarkable in this film! Interesting to see the real Betty Mahmoody.
My mother has a very similar story. My father was Iranian and they met in the U.S.A. and married. After having 2 children my father arranged for a visit to Iran with the family. But arriving he made it clear they would never return to America. He was very abusive. He even kicked her in stomach when she was pregnant with their third child to kill the baby. She prayed to God to escape. My father could not find a job there despite his education as an engineer. So after much frustration he decided to return yo America. My mother kissed the ground when they arrived on America soil. She never left him because she always thought he would kidnap the kids to take off to Iran. So she stayed submissive to him and his violence. She was an emotional captive. I am the 5th and last child in the family. My father stopped beating my mom after I called the cops on him when I grew old enough. In his old age he became regretful for his past.
@@greentree730 abused people stay for a variety of reasons. Most of the time the abuser tries to destroy the victim's self worth to make them believe they can never survive on their own or that they can't escape safely; or that their kids will be kidnapped, etc.. It seems simple to those who haven't been abused, but there is a lot of mind control and fear involved.
Amazing how if you get a divorce then the husband/father gets custody of the children and you are prevented from having any contact with them. This is put in place to trap the wife in the marriage. Sure, some women might leave their marriage and their children but by and large mothers won't do that and these vicious men know it. Otherwise they couldn't care less about the children.
This was my mother's favorite movie. Her first love was a boy from Saudi Arabia that she met in school. His family wouldn't accept their relationship because she was an American and Catholic. They were going to move to Saudi Arabia but he said she would be kept a secret in an apartment away from everyone. She eventually decided not to go and after seeing this movie I am glad she chose to stay in ths U.S. excellent movie!!!
This nearly happened to a friend of mine from Manchester. Her Saudi husband was a lecturer at Manchester University . They had 2 boys aged 9 and 6. They were going to Saudi on holiday. I had seen Betty's video the night before ,and went round to see my friend before they were to leave. On the spur of the moment ,she told me to take the boys to her Mum's house. We waited for him to come home from work. I had always found him very pleasant and pro=western. He turned nasty ,picked up his case ,and walked out. My friend found out that he had sold the house ,and taken all their money to Saudi, even the money she had earned as a Secretary. . She had to move in with her Mum.--A lucky escape.
@@sheilanixon4479 yeah that’s really scary!! Especially if she went with the kids because then she would be at his mercy. I think this movie saved a lot of women that didn’t realize what could easily happen!
No. This woman is the dumbest. She willingly put her daughter into a dangerous situation because she was too lazy to research Islam and Iranian culture.
It’s really not racist to tell her story. You know the story where she was held captive and beaten by her husband in a foreign country? She said it shouldn’t make Iran look bad because it shouldn’t. One persons actions don’t define a country. But it’s still NOT wrong to tell her story.
I'm married since 10 years with an iranian man, we always go to holiday there, nothing like this which the movie shows. It's just to wash people brain because of the oil fighting.
A mother who willingly went to a country that treats women horribly with her daughter and then gets stuck there and had to escape.. She knew what she was getting into and even said she knew it was a bad idea when she got on the plane but did it anyway.. How is this a mother to admire? She took her daughter to a country that treats girls like garbage! That's not a hero.. That's not an incredible women.. Incredible mothers don't put their children in danger 🙄🤦♀️
I found this book and read it when I was in the eighth grade. Its birthed in me a sense of patriotism and gratitude for being born in this country. I only somewhat paid attention in any history class I had at that point, and had no idea. Im glad Betty wrote this and told her store. Blessings to the whole family
But unfortunately this is all propaganda. This whole world lieth in wickedness. We are ALL born of One Blood. From the same family tree. Of Adam and Eve. We are the fruit of that corrupt tree. So we Must be Born Again of INcorruptible Seed. The TREE of LIFE. The Word of GOD. The Fruit that Never Spoils. All we need to do is believe IN the One True GOD that liveth and Abideth Forever. By hearing and believing the Gospel ( Word)- 1Tim 2:5- There is ONE GOD and One Mediator between GOD and Men, the Man Christ Jesus Mediator/Son =2 Man ( Flesh)- Jesus GOD ( SPIRIT) JESUS 2Cor 5:19- GOD WAS IN CHRIST Reconciling the world unto Himself Col 2:9- For IN Him Dwelleth All the Fulness of the Godhead bodily Jesus died for the sins of the world and was buried and on the 3rd day GOD Raised Him From the Dead according to the scriptures When we believe this, we get the Living Spirit of GOD IN us! And we are Born Again, of the Spirit that can Never die!! We are Passed from death to Life, New Creatures Created In Christ. We are HIS treasure. This life is temporary, and everything in it is temporary, and corrupted. JESUS came to bring Life More Abundantly ( Eternal LIFE)! 1Cor 3:16- Know ye not that ye are the temple of GOD and that the Spirit of GOD dwelleth In you? His sheep Live Forever!!!! It’s A FREE GIFT!!! No Works. Just Faith. ❤️ 🎁 ☀️ 🐑
"He was a great father in this country." This absolutely shows how she is trying to give a balanced judgement, after all that he did to her and her daughter. Much love and respect!
I remember reading that book decades ago, everyone was reading it. Radicalisation and fundamentalism can occur in any religion and it’s the females that suffer the most.
@Wynn Wynn Also women perpetuate sexism as moms by valuing their sons over their daughters, or prioritizing their sons' interests over their daughter-in-laws'! If there is to be gender equality, women must treat sons & daughters equally & not subscribe to gender stereo-types!
Its chauvinism we need to worry about. Chauvinism existing in a fundamentalist repressive culture is toxic for females, whether Mormon, Amish, Muslim, or other.
@@AKi-ir9uu , the woman was being totally uncooperative with her husband because he was controlling the situation, so, no she was entirely honest.That does not give anybody the right to abuse a situation.
@@fordtuff2600 I fought a different battle to get away from an abusive husband with 4 minors,I also played nice swallowing the abuse and humiliation but I planned carefully ,then when the time was right I took them and ran,neva regret it 1 moment of the struggle being alone, I will wiĺlingly give my life to protect them in a heart best,no questions asked or hesitations
@@lilianhaggland2031 I'm very glad you took that huge scared step to get you and your children away from that situation . You are stronger and wiser for it and as hard as it is ,I know your children are safe in your love 🤗 I wish you and your family all the best . From one mother to another, respect 😉
I read Betty’s book again a few years ago and then read Mahtob’s book! Mahtob corroborated everything her mother said plus talked about how her father treated her. Plus both books went into details about their lives after they returned to the US! I highly recommend both books!
There are beautiful people of every ethnicity and even in the scriptures we see there will be people of every nation in heaven. May Yah bless the people who helped this woman .
I knew a woman who had a similar story. She had a son and she didn’t get out with her son. When the son was 15, the dad and her husband showed up on her doorstep. The change of power had stripped the husband of his status and he had to flee the country. She did get her son back, but she had to take the husband back or the son would not stay with her. It was an awful situation for several years. She was able to eventually build a relationship with her son and loose the husband.
I first watched this movie over 30 years ago when my children were babies. And recently watched it again. OMG anxiety off the charts for this woman and child. I said WAYYYY back then, there was NO way I would have agreed to go to Iran. Hubby promises or not. NEVER EVER. I wish she would have stuck to her gut feeling, BUT she trusted and believed in him. I am SO glad they got out safely. The AMERICAN FLAG when she saw it tugged at my heart strings. SAFE! SAFE at last. I would do anything for my children. They are 37 (38 in December) and 32 (33 in October)
I remember going to see this movie with by best friend, when it first came out. We were so upset, watching the abuse that happened to Betty. We were actually yelling at the screen (like they could hear us). The last straw was when he hit his child in the school. We actually walked out of the theater, in tears. It was several years later that I finally watched the entire move on tv. I cried so much, during this movie. I was overjoyed that Betty was able to get herself and her daughter back to the United States. I can’t even begin to imagine the hell they both went through. If you have never seen this movie, you should. Sally Field did an amazing job portraying Betty. God Bless her and her beautiful daughter. I pray that they remain safe from this monster.
I absolutely love the movie, I am watching it now for the 5th time. Your story is heartfelt, and it demonstrated bravery and love. I wish you all the success in the world Betty, stay blessed🌷
I remember watching this with my mom when I was really young. Never forgot it. Betty is an inspiration. I'm grateful I was born in America. Where I am free. I equate being born in America to winning the lottery.
Wonderful interview. It's so interesting getting to know the real Betty. The interviewer asked great questions. There were a few times when I wish the interviewer hadn't cut her off quite so quickly, though.
This lady was strong, determined, and a survivor...I really couldn't imagine going through this....I appluade her for her courage to get back to the United States with her daughter...the movie got a thumbs up from me👍👍👍
I read the book when it came out around 1990. I was riveted, and just couldnt put the book down. Then watched the movie a few years later. So interesting to see comments still being made, years after this interview.
I both read the book and saw the movie and thought what a miracle it was that Betty and her daughter survived given the dangerous and challenging situation they were in. Bless her for sharing it with us and also those Iranian people who were kind enough to help them. It shows there is a positive faith in all cultures along with the negative aspects. Thank you Betty and Mahtob 🌹♥️♥️🌹
me too! I did marry a Christian Arab. I tried leaving him. We had a child under age one. Under the pretext of wanting to spend time and shop for her, I let him take her. I got a phone call from him; come home or he was going to bring her to his homeland of Jordan; I would never see her again! I went home! However, next time I left; I moved across country!
@@bonnienero9415 I don’t know what the matter is with some of those Arab men and why they are so vindictive and controlling! Good for you for starting over elsewhere.
I have always believed that religion in and of itself isn't the real problem. The real problem lies with the human adherents of these religions - they are the ones that dictate what the religion decides to teach you about how to live, it's the humans that want control over other humans - after all, as the Bible succinctly puts it: the human heart is inherently evil. So, in every religion there are those whose humanity will dictate how they act, and there are those who've completely lost this tiny spark of humanity, and will use religious dictates to impose their will and oppress others.
Daniel Roberts. Just because her husband died it does not mean she is safe. His brother or cousins could carry on looking for her and her daughter forever.
Me too I also read the book at the edge of my seat. It’s a book that you can’t put down ever, when you put the book down then the book is in your heart because it is that moving.Waw! What a book!
Your story immortalised through a movie serves as an example to all women in the world is that You are the change You make your future You decide your life. God bless your family and God help all those in need 👏🙏✝️❤
You're wrong Betty your husband was a monster. The father of your child was a monster to do that to your family is just plain wrong. He was always the monster. You just didn't see it at the time.
I feel for her. She still defends that evil man as a good father and good husband and says that she initiated beatings. That’s what he did to her mind.
Domestic violence victims will try to minimize their abusers behavior. A part of her loves him but you can love someone and not be with them. Sometimes if you love someone you have to let them go because it’s unhealthy for you. It may sound crazy to say she still loved him when she did this interview but a lot of victims love their abuser
What an incredible interview. I’ve watch this movie maybe 100 times, as it is one of my favorites. To hear the real Betty talking gave me goosebumps. I’m Israeli and I recognized immediately that the movie was made in Israel. I would have loved to meet Betty and Mattob (moonlight) one day! ❤
After seeing the film in the theater, I read the book -- the film barely scratches the surface of what Betty details of her ordeal in the book! Also read her book "For the Love of a Child" and came to appreciate the extreme difficulty of orchestrating the return of children who suffer international abduction by a parent from a different country/culture. That book immediately came to mind with the Elian Gonzalez case, where the boy was returned to his father in Cuba -- while Americans immediately imposed a value judgment that Elian would be better off in the US, Betty's book had clued me in to the fact that in order for the American government to help get American children returned to the US, they need to reciprocate and help facilitate the return of foreign kidnapped children to their own countries. The process has to remain a two-way street, or other governments can (and sometimes do) refuse to return our children. It's bad enough when a parent uses his/her own child as a pawn, but children should never suffer becoming the pawns of governments.
Let’s not forget the good Iranian people that helped her and her daughter escaped. Without them Betty and her Mahtoud would not have had make it back home.
Hi, this is Eileen, the interviewer. I could not agree more. Thank you for your comment!
@@eileenprose8472 thank you for this interview Eileen, i watched it so often, its an incredible lifestory and you are a great interviewer, asking the right questions at the right time.
They helped her for 12 000 $...but i'm sure, many iranian peoples don't bear islam anymore, because islam stincks.
@@Recenseur Right! That's why it's the fasting growing religion in the world, even in the US where more Americans including women convert to it.
@@naima8392
No, this is the dying religion in the world USA don't like you 😅🤣😂
Please ladies, don't go to countries where you loose your rights.
No man is worth that.
She didn't want to go, but she was more afraid that he would take Mahtob and go without her and Iran wouldn't have let her in after that. If she went with him, then she could keep hold of her daughter.
true ... AND your children and their rights!
That's why I will NEVER leave America!
@@opheliasgrace her daughter was American born though and had a U.S. Passport , if he took her that would have been kidnapping but you're right at least with the Mom there she could keep an eye on her , which was smart as she got to see first hand what he would do and made the right decision to flee from the abuse.
I dated an Arab man right after college. When he brought up marriage, this kind of scenario came to my mind - even though it was years before Not Without My Daughter came out. Women in ANY free country that marry men from far less free countries are taking a HUGE risk. I didn't do it. Take heed, ladies. The message is very REAL.
Same.
Iranians are not Arabs. They are PERSIAN. Completely different. You are a liar, honey.
@@diva777 Iran is not Arab. It's predominantly ethnic Persian (like half of Los Angeles). They are not even religious outside of Iran. This movie was a total propaganda hit piece.
@@ciaronsmith4995stop taking it personally. This happened don’t pretend it didn’t.
@@ciaronsmith4995 rubbish on all fronts. Persia has not existed officially since 1935. They are Iranians. Secondly, Muslims do follow their Religion ( irrelevant where they are). Good luck trying to convince the World otherwise.
I can't even imagine trying to escape the way they did... This mom is so strong and amazing
Most free-born people will do almost anything to escape captivity and Betty proved that.
keke 89 , I went through the same thing and much worse. I guess this is normal.
Mahvash Khosrowyar Many hugs to you from Sweden! 💜
Americans are born free;they don't accept being imprisoned too easily.
You would be surprised what you'll do as a mother. My mother was a meek woman at 5'2" and 109lbs, but when protecting us you would think she was a lion ❤
I was raised by a muslim woman and grew up in a muslim country. I can testify that everything described in the book is the pure truth and I witnessed some of the events described with my own eyes. Throughout the book I didn't fell the slightest or tiniest bit of exageration. Life and rules are really how they are described !
Stop lying.
@@nukapuka stop being stupid
@@rainer1980 exactly sir, excellent analysis👍
@@rainer1980 what??? Lying to dupe a woman and hold her hostage? Where is that allowed in any religion? I am assuming you know tonnes of Muslim and have seen this practiced firsthand because I have yet to. Abusive men or toxic in-laws aren't unique to Muslim countries sadly.
@@Niceonthefrenchriviera im sorry to tell you that ur lyingi come from a muslim country and i can tell you i xan never be with an iranian man so how can you say that muslim are like that this is crazy iran is so extreme btw i don’t cover my hair and im married to a latino so don’t exaggerate plz
This movie opened my eyes about marrying into different cultures. The importance of really understanding where people come from and how they are raised and to dig deeper.
Marrying into different cultures can be an enriching experience. However it must be done with understanding, trust and a deep knowledge of the person you are marrying. He may have been a good husband and father in some ways but it's obvious by her fears before they went to Iran that there were already issues that caused her not to have full trust in him, and rightly so. This book/movie really drove home two things to me...always trust in your gut instincts, if something feels wrong it normally is, and when traveling know your rights or lack there of. If you won't have rights in a certain country than don't let anyone ever convince you it'll be okay to travel there.
@@Carolinagirl1028 Hi
There are plenty of abusers in your own town.
Similar cases have taken place at the hands of some of my countrymen. What would happen is they would go abroad, marry a local lady, some for proforma, some for love, but then when they had a child, the men would suddenly become "religious" and abduct their child back to their native country knowing we don't extradite people. Their excuse 2as they didn't want their child growing up in immoral west and to ensure they are raised as Muslims and the same moral and honor code that especially girls have to adhere to, they abduct them. Some mothers came here but our patriarchal and corrupt system ensured they could not win despite hiring lawyers, taking it to courts (our legal system is notoriously in favor of males), crying, begging, initiating mediation etc. So my advice would be to be cautious, and really get to know the background of the man, the laws, the religion the system, and how to ensure your rights as a mother/wife and also really have an open talk about your mutual expectations and especially child rearing and your identity to avoid such situations. Mixed marriages can go either way. My impression is such incidents are rare now a days.
Thank you it's something alot of people ignore before jumping headfast into such relationships.
Why are people offended by this story/movie? she literally said "you can't judge whole Iran just because of the family that were holding us"
Because they capitalized it on the whole country
terry smith the country was pretty bad
@@BrandyTexas214 not at all just have been there many times and it is a beautiful place you have the right to your opinion but try and really find out what is going on over there I recommend you watch some Iran vlogs
terry smith they’re literally shooting protestors but sure
@@BrandyTexas214 and America doesn't have issues?? Also there are terrorists everywhere... Not just the middle east
God bless those people who helped her escape!
That movie was total propaganda! Iranians are not even religious outside of the government and anyone who has watched Shahs of Sunset, know Persians are not religious....
@@ciaronsmith4995 God bless those kind people who helped her and her daughter escape from that violent man!
@@EmilyPetersenHomemaking Amelia. When a movie like this comes out it's only mean to do one thing - demonize a country. The US media has been in conflict with Iran the day the Shah left. These movies are all supposed to condition people's minds in the event of a conflict and garner sympathy for anti-Iran countries in the region (ie, Israel). Always look at the big picture. How many Anti-Iran films came out in the 70's when the Shah was in power? None. Do the math. This movie was highly insulting to Iranians, totally fictitious in its depiction of Persians/Iran, and at best, is a one-off isolated incident that isn't prevalent in what in Iran, arguably the most sophisticated country and peoples in the West Asian Region. Watch Shahs of Sunset instead. That's modern.
@@ciaronsmith4995 Betty Mahmoody herself said not to judge all of Iran just for the people who did that to her though. It's too bad people watched this movie and thought all Iranians were like that. I work with Iranian coworkers and students every day at my job and they are very lovely people.
@@EmilyPetersenHomemaking That's just the thing. Doesn't matter what she says, this movie made life like hell for Iranians in the 80's. People aren't nuanced. They look at a movie and draw conclusions. They aren't going to search for something Mahmoody said on the side. Anyone making a film is fully aware of that. It was intended to demonize which is totally disgraceful. It's also fictitious in its portrayal of 99.9% of Persians. Just really cringe imo.
I can't believe anyone has the gall to criticize this woman. This actually all happened to her. She even says that she's not speaking of ALL of Iran or the culture. She's speaking her truth. And she's so non judgmental after it all. To judge a woman whose been through what she has in any way except as a brave, determined, loving, protective mother is just wrong. May God + Allah Bless You, Betty Mahmoody
that's because we live in a PC world that wants to discount actual history and events, because they haven't been through anything like that. They just want to judge...
@Akshay Natu And the real Moody Mahmoudy was a chubby, average balding guy who didn't even have a beard unlike Alfred Molina in the film. The real Moody even tried make a documentary before he died to cover up what a bastard he was, and you can find it on RUclips titled, "Without My Daughter." I think it's worth watching to hear it in his own words, but I have no sympathy for him whatsoever.
Not "her" truth.
*_THE_* truth.
@@lisawentworth6831 this is from the 80's man, PC was nothing like it us now! atm if you say that there are only 2 genders, you are literally at risk losing your job, and having an angry mob of activists at your house while national media smears you out ...
none judgmental? read her book how disgusting she describes things and people.
the fact that she still wants her daughter to think positively of her father after all he did really shows how emotionally mature this woman is. so inspiring
She made her daughter to hate her father so much that she did not want to see the father anymore even though the father insisted and desperate to see her. like mother like daughter
@@m.6343 I'm glad the father is fucking dead and never saw her again. I hope he suffered brutally every second of his life.
@m.6343 you are wrong.The " father " thru his actions made his daughter hate him.Get your facts straight
@@m.6343you're doing victim blaming
@@shellf708 Exactly
Amazing how she shows no signs of resentment towards him despite what he did. She is a special kind of person
My feeling is she is (or was at the time of this video) still conditioned to think that “he wasn’t that bad”, “he was a wonderful husband”, “I elicited him beating me”, as many women who suffer abuse are.
Ruben Hernandez Betty and daughter are devout Christians.
Evelina Russo She said later on that she had to come to terms with the fact that the man she loved died (metaphorically speaking) when he went to Iran and that they were having the funeral. After that, in order to help Mahtob--and probably herself, too--to not be eaten up with hatred and bitterness toward her father and to be able to forgive him, she had Mahtob focus on all the good things her father had been for her. And, believe me, Mahtob needed help, because she was wishing that her dad was DEAD and, later on, she wished that she could see him, but only if he were behind bars where he couldn't hurt her anymore. Mahtob and Betty spent their life pretty much on the run from Moody even AFTER they got back to America, and watching over their shoulders wherever they were.
Mahtob has written her own book, now. It's called My Name is Mahtob, by Mahtob Mahmoody. I just finished reading it and it is a very fascinating read!
Ruben Hernandez She is a dedicated Christian and so is Mahtob. They say its why they prayed for him, refused to hate him and forgave him.
We are very accustomed to harassment and abused , it makes us very blasé
Sally Field was excellent in this movie.
Yes she sure was.
She sure was
Yes she really was. I just saw the movie on Tubi tV. I wished they had made a second part about what it was like returning.
Absolutely agree!!!
Yes.
This interviewer deserves an award!!! She listened, she was sensitive yet though. And the best part is she corrected her no woman deserves to be hit…. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I thought the same
Yes, came here to say this. She was great for noting and intervening
Yes. Unlike Oprah who talks the whole time she interviews the.
Also this is was late 80s or early 90s that interviewer was ❤❤❤
When the movie came out, I took my teenage daughter to go see it & told her to be very careful who she dated & married, as it could happen to anybody & I'm glad this movie made a difference!
This is a strong thought ! Well done well said 👍🏼
Did you warn her that Christian man from your country can be abusive or just teach her to hate all Iraninans & Muslims ?
Are raising a Nazi ?
@@paulinabakhshayesh6644
I didn't teach my daughter to Hate Anybody, I wanted her to know that outside the US Women Do NOT Have Any Rights!!
& yes she is aware men in America are just as abusive! But Women do have rights!
@@anonymousforever sign your name you discriminative bully
“No woman initiates abuse, we shouldn’t say that”
Slow clap 👏
Amen
I dont think Betty meant it that way... she probably should've said, she initiated in Moody and the family's eyes - then she had to play the long game to avoid and prevent more beatings.
Agreed
@@thelegendofthem6120 Yes, maybe her actions triggered the abuse, but not that it was, in any way, deserved.
I disagree, many women abuse their husbands and children actually
I took my daughter to this movie. I wanted her to understand how important it was to never let anyone take her away from her mother for any reason & also to help her understand how strong a mother’s love is for their child, especially their daughter.
Well done mom. This was an important lesson for her whole life. I saw this movie as a teenager and never forgot. Ever.
I read her book twice. I felt Betty's pain throughout the book as she depicted her tortuous journey. Any American woman who marries a foreigner whose culture is so radically different needs to be careful about going overseas with him must, and she must proceed with caution. There are too many horror stories. She is blessed to have escaped.
Plus any woman that marries into a foreign culture that she does not know is going to cause a lot of heart aches for her own family!
EXACTLY Correct. The SAME thing HAPPENED 2me. Amazing
@@daphnesmith1686 I just watch a worst case scenario. Parents of Kayla Mueller who was captured held, sexually molested, tortured and killed by the terrorist that President Trump had killed by drone. She was a humanitarian! Worked with Doctors Without Borders! So sad!
I think just the fact that her daughter was American born helped , if she had an Iranian Passport the Father could have used that against them, thank goodness they made it out though, so sad he changed into a monster, what a brave woman she is for getting out, that took some stones.
@@rottierumbles9451 Well Said
The man who almost killed me, was the nicest guy for four years. Never even raised his voice to me.
Revolution made Iranians guilty for turning their back on Islam ..and I don't need to mention that how badly Iranians were being treated in us during that time ..moody wasn't able live in America he had to go back to his country but he didn't wanted to leave his wife and kid so he choose the violent way which was wrong...but still he was a good husband and Father...just time wasn't in favor of them
I'm old enough to remember this time and Iranians in the US.
What mistreatment, specifically, and where and who?
@@bloombloom271 u can't ignore the fact that he was fired from his job ...he was being bullied and stalked cause of his nationality...he didn't had any choice rather than going back to Iran ...and he wanted his wife and daughter with him so he become abusive which is unacceptable but still america was reason for a lot of Iranian man's to become monster for their English wife's !
@@syedashafiyahassan5905that's a disgusting reason to abuse someone
@@syedashafiyahassan5905Don't get me wrong but I was bullied too but i controlled myself not to do any harm to anyone.Espefially my family even though I don't have family yet.Abuse.leaves trauma that can't be healed.I was abused by my mother's boyfriend who kept telling people that i was a liar thief and what not.The truth was that he abused me and mother to the point of insanity almost.All that bcs his mother.left him.He was in therapy but he started doing it again today blurping slurs at me for checking on my dogs.I spent whole autumn 2023 eating chips for breakfast and sleeping in backyard.He didn't allow me to use toilet but when I did he made fun of me.
She said clearly: we are naive about other cultures. We need to get better informed before getting into a relatipnship with a person from another culture.
Soooo very true,ESPECIALLY MUSLIM CULTURE.
This is so true...especially of America...e.g the Afghanistan fiasco of a war should never have happened/continuesd if people learn to at the very least try to educate ourselves about other people's cultures, religion etc and accept it for what it is, respect it and mind your business insteadof trying to change it.
@@TheFourSistersShow I am not so sure what you are trying to imply with some of the things you said. But we widely respect them and little do we want to change them in comparison to the intention THEY have to change the west. Their aim (even in their sources, or maybe especially in their sources) is to establish Islam all around the world and to convert us all, EVEN BY MEANS OF TERROR (QURAN/HADITH). Most of our values mean corruption for them.
@@ramolaramoutar7287 I learnt the hard way, Thank God, He rescued me
Yes. She is right. I marry a non practicant muslim and it turned out of 10 years of sufferance. Those cultures are to different and women are not treated well and kids too
How on Earth she able to talk about her ex husband, with understanding and not hate? Such a remarkable woman!
Because she loved him
Forgiveness is necessary or the bitterness only winds up hurting you more in the long run.
she's a christian
@@misspickles1983 as if religion has something to do with it
Abuse victims often defend their abusers. Its not remarkable; it’s mental illness.
What a brave woman!!! She is so well spoken and intelligent. I'm happy she escaped with her daughter.
What a terrible ordeal.
She made a beyond stupid decision, and she's lucky to be alive.
I grew up with a similar experience. I changed my name just so my father wouldn’t find me and mother and siblings we flead Iraq in the 1980s
What an absolute awful experience you must’ve had. Such an evil place and “religion”
Wow that’s terrifying
Thank God and for sharing your story. Blessings. 🙏🏼🕊🥰
I'M GLAD YOU GUYS ARE SAFE...BUT DON'T START LEAVINH BREAD CRUMBS
God bless you and your family.
She was strong and determined under terrible circumstances. I'm happy she and her daughter are safe.
Bless her, such strenght a true survivor. In 1985 I met a man from Pakistan. He treated me like a queen, so different from my previous American boyfriends. We eventually married only about 5 months after we met. He was Muslim and I was Lutheran, but we had a big church wedding and I never saw him practicing his religion. The only weird thing was that he was so scared of me getting pregnant and thank God I didn’t or I may have had the same story. Two years after a story book marriage I came home from work one evening to what then was the worst night of my life. He tells me that his family in Pakistan, who I believed knew we were married, had found a ‘wife’ for him and that I had to divorce him or else! This was after 2 years of marriage and one year after he got his green card. I tried to refuse but he had changed back in a serious muslim and after a while told me that if I wanted to remain healthy I better file for divorce immediately. Thins got scarey so I did as he demanded. He left to Pakistan to marry this woman who I later found out he’d known almost all his life. He was engaged to her when he came to America to study avionics. So the truth was he used me to get that green card. It took me a long time to emotionally recover. Despite what he did I still loved him because our marriage was a good one until the truth came out.
That is an incredible story. Thank you for sharing that. I’m so sorry that happened to you, I guess you just never really know someone. I’m praying for your continued recovery.
I’m sorry you had to go thru that
Im sorry u went thru that . ....
I hope you reported him for marrying you for a green card
I would have informed the state. HE is not the only 1 doing that
I was there the same time she was there I didn't Escape as she had you I was there for 10 years after the revolution during the war American hostage crisis I escaped because my husband was abusive. I was eight and a half months pregnant with an almost two year old and a 10 year old and the same man that helped her get out of the country help me he was an American man
Wow...
Are u a non Muslim?
I'm happy you escaped..
Are you still a muslim ?
Wow! So sorry to hear that. Even as an Algerian/Muslim I would have had a hard time living in Iran. I cant understand why this happens.
@@naima8392 they are not muslim. They are a sectarian group of shiite or shiah. Different than islam. Their Qur'an and pillar of religion are different than Islam. Their religion encourage contract marriage just to allow men to have sex with prostitute or any female for the sake of sex.
.sicko
They have this idea that they are the highest top the greatest the smartest where race are concern. They proud to call themselves Persian.
They believes in imams ..which not prophet
Babab Gigirl Yes you may be correct. I remember the temporary marriage contract that is part pf their practice, which allows men to have a temporary marriage just for their sexual needs.that is contrary to Islam.
I saw this movie when I was living overseas with a very abusive spouse. It gave me courage,being 5 months pregnant with twins, to “kidnap” my ten older children , go to the US Embassy, and return to the United States. My gratitude to Ambassador Michael Armacost for rendering “usual and normal consular services” as he termed it. May God richly bless him for his help. It made a tremendous difference in my children’s lives.
You set an example for youre children and saved them. Well done.
Ma'am you are strong brave women. I hope you have a healthy and lovely life and your children too. Much love and high regards
@@Rayray_ray_ray Isn´t she just that!! Love it.
@@Rayray_ray_ray @jacquelineb3475 Exodus from overseas continued. The children and I settled in rural Arizona, the twins were born three months later. Daddy showed up from overseas with his “posse” , a female cousin, an attorney and a bodyguard, staying with him at the scottsdale camelback resort for the next year as he filed for divorce And 15 months later was given custody of the 10 eldest children. I was given custody of the twins, who were 11 months old. I did not see my older children for 25 years. Three of my sons now live in Australia, and I have not seen them since 1985. The good side of it is all of my children have beautiful, loving families most of them have told me that they forgive their father. One son who was two years old when his father gained custody, said he forgave his father, but even though his father had been dead for several years, he still had nightmares. One of my daughters said that my courage in leaving, gave her the hope that someday she also would be able to escape.
It's sad that she said basically that she might have been the cause of the abuse a little,glad the interviewer said no. No human being should ever be abused in anyway physically,mentally,emotionally period.
So true. Experiencing a touch of nostalgia with your profile pic, that's Naima Mora
I disagree. The man that did that to his family is deserving of not just abuse, but torture and death.
I see your point. But I took it to mean that, he was an abusive man, and she knows what triggered his abusive side. That’s not an excuse at all. That is just to say that if you are in a situation where someone becomes abusive, you learn what their triggers are. It’s the best way to out smart them. Clearly she knew his behavior was wrong, but being in a different culture, she almost had to accept it in order to escape it.
I think she meant the relationship was on the rocks.....and then he even beat her when she was nice!!!!!!
I remember reading this book...I will never forget it!!! Betty you are an inspiration to all women!!!
Media wont show you this in middle they tell their muslim men to go after western women to conquer. ruclips.net/video/S4K4okVa7dU/видео.html
I remember this too. I read the book in the 80’s.
So she wasn't forced to go to Iran.. She can say she was but nobody put a gun to her head.. And she goes there knowing how this culture treats women and she is shocked that she is treated badly and is forced to stay and then has to escape and she is an inspiration?? So she doesn't have to take any responsibility for being an adult and going there in the first place? A place with no American embassy.. A place where women are second class citizens..but what a hero 🙄🤦♀️
Thanks to everyone every man that understood her and helped her .....
Good mom. Especially to not want her daughter to hate her dad. True good mother.
When she sees the flag at the end, I always cry.
yes beautiful moment ❤
Me too Nancy!😖
Me too!! Then i go eat egg salad and fart.
*Ooooh the 🇺🇸 was flying high, I felt so relieved for her.*
Hi Nancy, how are you doing?
I know someone who married a Nigerian and waa held hostage. A woman helped her escape. She slept in a field and ran on the tarmac reaching the plane with nothing but what she had on. She didn't even have her passport. The US and those at the airport were very sympathetic response to her plight. ❤ the US.
Hahahahah, you guys are full of shit. I am Nigerian and there is no way in hell, anyone could have been held hostage by any man of family
All I will say is THANK GOD, that you and your daughter are alive and safe. God bless.
My mom had me watch this show when I was a child and I'm so glad she did.
Her determination to get out from her abusive husband but did all she had to leave without her daughter. Love her guts. Applause her being a mother🥰👏🙏
He was a monster just in America he masked it..like any abuser
Amen. This is how abusive men are Christian, Muslim, or any religion they disguise who they are until it's too late
how long were they married before they went to Iran?
RedLikeWine I believe she said 4 years.
Red like wine I think 12 years. I think the four years thing was how long she knew him before they even got married which is crazy to think you knew someone for 16 years and they never behaved like this and then it was like this radical change I mean I know she said he got a little weird there during the Iranian revolution in 1979 but I mean the story is just incredible I wish they would remake the movie or something. We’re not actually, because they always ruin it remakes and sequels are just never as good as the original LOL
She did say the abuse started before they went over.
Terrible husband!
Yes just like th eff ex husband and I could say his name but I won't slander his name but he slander my name on social media and all of the multiple people that he gets involved with and the court's took the ex side because of MONEY because I asked the court's for joint custody but they give him head of custody wow
Vicky Landing The courts and lawyers f#cking suck. They are evil and always take the assh#le father’s side. There is no justice. The court always finds in favor of the guilty in these types of cases. Hope they rot in Hell.
That movie was total propaganda! Iranians are not even religious outside of the government and anyone who has watched Shahs of Sunset, know Persians are not religious....
@@ciaronsmith4995 wrong. People that use the word Persian are usually more secular. If someone says they are Iranian- believe them.
@@jordansjul Wrong. Iranian refers to the branch of peoples from Iran. Persians are one branch. Persian is a race from Iran. There are also Iranian-Armenians for example. They are fantastic people.
She is so ahead of her time in this interview. What happened to her was absolutely terrible and people already have such a negative perspective on the middle east because of war, terrorism, and situations such as this. The fact that she says because her husband and his family were radical or fundamentalist Muslims doesn't mean all Iranian people are too, shows her emotional and general maturity. So many people back in this time would never be as open minded as her. And through everything her husband put her through, she still encourages her daughter to think positively about him shows her strength and integrity. What an amazing woman. So much respect for Ms. Betty 💓🙌🏼
Captivating book. This interview is amazing after 30+ yrs, putting a face with a name.
Where can I find a copy of her book. I've seen the movie but I'm sure the book is nothing like the movie and probably even more detailed.
I'm not sure where today you could find the book. I'd try a thrift store, online or somewhere like that. I imagine you should be able to find it, it's one that left a profound impression on me. A book I couldn't put down. Best of luck and hope that helps
@@connielamb6257 thank you
She looks like lady Diana. Same looks same soft talking ways. Which shows her humbleness ❤❤❤❤❤❤
This movie was so good I remember watching it as a kid and getting scared they would get caught and have to go back but I’m glad everything turned out good for them in the end.
When my wife and I first watched this movie we just could not believe it ,had to watch it again for it to sink in,and like another comment when she saw the Turkish Flag at the end my wife cried what a brave lady you are Betty glad you told your story ,when we lent our daughter the DVD she gave it back and promised to be very very careful who she got married to,I know alot of mixed marriages have worked and have been very happy,but some who's culture is worlds apart from ours ends up like Betty's,plus we have same culture marriages that have ended in tragedy so what is the answer.?
I also watched this movie as a kid. But being Persian/Iranian, I watched it with different emotions than you and many others had. I was mainly thinking of how Hollywood can do such a great job at demonizing an entire country and culture.
Was one of my mum's favorite movie alongside Mrs. Doubtfire
Her book is so much more detailed than the movie. I really recommend her two books.
@@TripleB236Unfortunately, Hollywood is so commercial that it lacks any sense of proper nuance.
I did read the book at the beginning of the 90s (all my friends did it too!). I was shocked. I suffered with Betty and her sweet Mahtab. I saw the movie also, but since I read the book, I started to watch Muslim culture with other eyes. Betty is such a strong woman. A proud American woman, born and rised in Democracy and Free. Thank you Betty for share your story with the world.
I have lots of Muslim friends and they are wonderful.
Alot of people don't realize that Iran never used to be like this before it was taken over and made an Islamic state ,it was once a very free country just like the united states .The women could dress in regular clothes and not have to wear hijabs and cover themselves up..
EXACTLY. Thank you for pointing this out. Iran is occupied by islamic thugs since 1979
Yes. I've seen photos of Iran from the 60s it it was really not much different from Western Europe.
And those people that help them are heroes....thank you guys.
You are my HERO!!! Amazing .... She prayed and prayed and of course GOD heard you🙏🙏🙏✨✨🕊
Those who are really interested in knowning the truth about this family can read the book entitled “The False Heroine and Her Ridiculous Bully: The Story of Betty and Dr Mahmoody by His Coauthor,” found on Amazon.
Hi Stephanie, how are you doing?
@@hurst-cs2jh ls that all you can say ?
Powerful film that haunts me to this day! A must see that is more timely today than it was when it first came out. Sally Fields is remarkable in this film! Interesting to see the real Betty Mahmoody.
Terrie Frankel yes . I love Sally Fields . Wow . Poor thing.
Molina was also remarkable.
My mother has a very similar story. My father was Iranian and they met in the U.S.A. and married. After having 2 children my father arranged for a visit to Iran with the family. But arriving he made it clear they would never return to America. He was very abusive. He even kicked her in stomach when she was pregnant with their third child to kill the baby. She prayed to God to escape. My father could not find a job there despite his education as an engineer. So after much frustration he decided to return yo America. My mother kissed the ground when they arrived on America soil. She never left him because she always thought he would kidnap the kids to take off to Iran. So she stayed submissive to him and his violence. She was an emotional captive. I am the 5th and last child in the family. My father stopped beating my mom after I called the cops on him when I grew old enough. In his old age he became regretful for his past.
I am so sorry for you, your siblings and your mom for all of the pain and abuse you endured. I pray you have peace and happiness. 💔🙏
Wow...she should of left...
@@greentree730 abused people stay for a variety of reasons. Most of the time the abuser tries to destroy the victim's self worth to make them believe they can never survive on their own or that they can't escape safely; or that their kids will be kidnapped, etc.. It seems simple to those who haven't been abused, but there is a lot of mind control and fear involved.
I'm just so happy that they came back to America and you were born there
I did a paper on this in graduate school. This was so sad. The way he changed was devastating.
He didn’t change. He became what he had been programmed to be from the very start, under favorable conditions.
When she saw that American flag..I knew she was gonna be okay.
Shining beacon of Hope.
That was the most patriotic scene in any movie I've ever seen.
Come on that's ridiculous
God bless the USA 🇺🇸
It makes you really appreciate it. :) So many take that for granted.
Amazing how if you get a divorce then the husband/father gets custody of the children and you are prevented from having any contact with them. This is put in place to trap the wife in the marriage. Sure, some women might leave their marriage and their children but by and large mothers won't do that and these vicious men know it. Otherwise they couldn't care less about the children.
This was my mother's favorite movie. Her first love was a boy from Saudi Arabia that she met in school. His family wouldn't accept their relationship because she was an American and Catholic. They were going to move to Saudi Arabia but he said she would be kept a secret in an apartment away from everyone. She eventually decided not to go and after seeing this movie I am glad she chose to stay in ths U.S. excellent movie!!!
Rachel Wyatt your movie sounds like a very smart women.
Yes. That movie DOES sound like a very smart women.
This nearly happened to a friend of mine from Manchester. Her Saudi husband was a lecturer at Manchester University . They had 2 boys aged 9 and 6. They were going to Saudi on holiday. I had seen Betty's video the night before ,and went round to see my friend before they were to leave. On the spur of the moment ,she told me to take the boys to her Mum's house. We waited for him to come home from work. I had always found him very pleasant and pro=western. He turned nasty ,picked up his case ,and walked out. My friend found out that he had sold the house ,and taken all their money to Saudi, even the money she had earned as a Secretary. . She had to move in with her Mum.--A lucky escape.
@@sheilanixon4479 yeah that’s really scary!! Especially if she went with the kids because then she would be at his mercy. I think this movie saved a lot of women that didn’t realize what could easily happen!
You can’t judge the actions of bad apples in religions. They aren’t all bad but I’m glad you’re mom didn’t want to be a secret.
This woman is the bravest! God bless the people who helped her
No. This woman is the dumbest. She willingly put her daughter into a dangerous situation because she was too lazy to research Islam and Iranian culture.
It’s really not racist to tell her story. You know the story where she was held captive and beaten by her husband in a foreign country? She said it shouldn’t make Iran look bad because it shouldn’t. One persons actions don’t define a country. But it’s still NOT wrong to tell her story.
I watched this movie wen I was a kid and now I'm 41. I told myself I will never go to that place or marry man from that country
Me too! I'm 34 now! I really want too see the movie again and show it to my husband 🙂
So should I not marry an American because of the KKK? you're racist
I'm married since 10 years with an iranian man, we always go to holiday there, nothing like this which the movie shows. It's just to wash people brain because of the oil fighting.
Fuck them
@Mohammad Joshan yes against being held captive against her will.
What an incredible woman. Her children have a mother to admire.
Why did she leave her son behind?
A mother who willingly went to a country that treats women horribly with her daughter and then gets stuck there and had to escape.. She knew what she was getting into and even said she knew it was a bad idea when she got on the plane but did it anyway.. How is this a mother to admire? She took her daughter to a country that treats girls like garbage! That's not a hero.. That's not an incredible women.. Incredible mothers don't put their children in danger 🙄🤦♀️
I found this book and read it when I was in the eighth grade. Its birthed in me a sense of patriotism and gratitude for being born in this country. I only somewhat paid attention in any history class I had at that point, and had no idea. Im glad Betty wrote this and told her store. Blessings to the whole family
But unfortunately this is all propaganda. This whole world lieth in wickedness. We are ALL born of One Blood. From the same family tree. Of Adam and Eve. We are the fruit of that corrupt tree. So we Must be Born Again of INcorruptible Seed. The TREE of LIFE. The Word of GOD. The Fruit that Never Spoils. All we need to do is believe IN the One True GOD that liveth and Abideth Forever.
By hearing and believing the Gospel ( Word)-
1Tim 2:5- There is ONE GOD and One Mediator between GOD and Men, the Man Christ Jesus
Mediator/Son =2
Man ( Flesh)- Jesus
GOD ( SPIRIT) JESUS
2Cor 5:19- GOD WAS IN CHRIST Reconciling the world unto Himself
Col 2:9- For IN Him Dwelleth All the Fulness of the Godhead bodily
Jesus died for the sins of the world and was buried and on the 3rd day GOD Raised Him From the Dead according to the scriptures
When we believe this, we get the Living Spirit of GOD IN us! And we are Born Again, of the Spirit that can Never die!! We are Passed from death to Life, New Creatures Created In Christ. We are HIS treasure. This life is temporary, and everything in it is temporary, and corrupted. JESUS came to bring Life More Abundantly ( Eternal LIFE)!
1Cor 3:16- Know ye not that ye are the temple of GOD and that the Spirit of GOD dwelleth In you?
His sheep Live Forever!!!! It’s A FREE GIFT!!! No Works. Just Faith. ❤️ 🎁 ☀️ 🐑
"He was a great father in this country."
This absolutely shows how she is trying to give a balanced judgement, after all that he did to her and her daughter.
Much love and respect!
This movie was so profound to me at 13 years old.
me too! theres also an interview with Mahtob, watching that after, I still watch the movie
@@arancarlton3285 could you share the link please
I remember reading that book decades ago, everyone was reading it. Radicalisation and fundamentalism can occur in any religion and it’s the females that suffer the most.
@Wynn Wynn Also women perpetuate sexism as moms by valuing their sons over their daughters, or prioritizing their sons' interests over their daughter-in-laws'! If there is to be gender equality, women must treat sons & daughters equally & not subscribe to gender stereo-types!
Yes but Islam has a REAL problem… FGM, honor killings, not allowing women to study, not allowing women to be seen, terrorism..I could go on and on..
Its chauvinism we need to worry about. Chauvinism existing in a fundamentalist repressive culture is toxic for females, whether Mormon, Amish, Muslim, or other.
@@West-rn-showvn-ist-chick yes it’s a religion that attracts men who want power over women.
Going on daily, now again in Afghanistan.
She’s absolutely whip smart. Her wit and will to fight saved her and her daughter’s lives.
"No women ever initiates abuse." Gotta love this swift response from the interviewer after the victim claimed she initiated the conjugal violence!
Unless they are not being entirely honest.
@@AKi-ir9uu , the woman was being totally uncooperative with her husband because he was controlling the situation, so, no she was entirely honest.That does not give anybody the right to abuse a situation.
This hits me so hard to the core. Her bravery n willingness to escape for their safety. She is an amazing lady.
That kind of strength only comes from being a mother. Mothers are fierce. God bless the mothers.
Hi Jennifer, how are you doing?
Jennifer, yes ,mother's can move mountains l know my mother was like that .but that is a different story.
Sadly Not all mother's have that inherent protective nature. But the ones that do keep the generations stronger for it .
@@fordtuff2600 I fought a different battle to get away from an abusive husband with 4 minors,I also played nice swallowing the abuse and humiliation but I planned carefully ,then when the time was right I took them and ran,neva regret it 1 moment of the struggle being alone, I will wiĺlingly give my life to protect them in a heart best,no questions asked or hesitations
@@lilianhaggland2031 I'm very glad you took that huge scared step to get you and your children away from that situation . You are stronger and wiser for it and as hard as it is ,I know your children are safe in your love 🤗 I wish you and your family all the best . From one mother to another, respect 😉
I read Betty’s book again a few years ago and then read Mahtob’s book! Mahtob corroborated everything her mother said plus talked about how her father treated her. Plus both books went into details about their lives after they returned to the US! I highly recommend both books!
What are the names of the books?
@@reinabombela4220 Look them up by the authors' names, Betty Mahmoody and Mahtob Mahmoody. You're welcome.
@@kathleenmitchell1582 thank you
@@reinabombela4220 Not Without My Daughter by Betty Mahmoody and My Name is Mahtob, by Mahtob Mahmoody
The dad has also written a book, without my daughter.
There are beautiful people of every ethnicity and even in the scriptures we see there will be people of every nation in heaven. May Yah bless the people who helped this woman .
today this film would get so much backlash
All the comments in the video say the contrary
Backlash for areal life story?
@@KimmyQueenI know it is crazy but in today's world, she would get backlash. i support everything she did
It did back In 1991 too. Sally field was getting threats from what i have heard
@@travelswithpatti7494 wow
I knew a woman who had a similar story. She had a son and she didn’t get out with her son. When the son was 15, the dad and her husband showed up on her doorstep. The change of power had stripped the husband of his status and he had to flee the country. She did get her son back, but she had to take the husband back or the son would not stay with her. It was an awful situation for several years. She was able to eventually build a relationship with her son and loose the husband.
Betty is a courageous person. I saw the movie. It was tense. Glad she and her daughter made it home.
book is great from linda in scotland
I read your book Betty. You're a very strong woman as most women are. women are amazing people.
I made this mistake. I married an arab. It was tough enough. Ladies be aware of the dangers.
Still one of the best movies ever made she is an incredibly strong woman
I love how the interviewer caught and corrected her by saying “No one initiates abuse”!!
When she walked around the corner and saw that big beautiful flag it gave me chill bumps.
I first watched this movie over 30 years ago when my children were babies. And recently watched it again. OMG anxiety off the charts for this woman and child. I said WAYYYY back then, there was NO way I would have agreed to go to Iran. Hubby promises or not. NEVER EVER. I wish she would have stuck to her gut feeling, BUT she trusted and believed in him. I am SO glad they got out safely. The AMERICAN FLAG when she saw it tugged at my heart strings. SAFE! SAFE at last. I would do anything for my children. They are 37 (38 in December) and 32 (33 in October)
“No woman ever initiates abuse.” Yes. I would add ‘no PERSON’ but for the 80s/90s this is refreshing to hear. 👏🏼
I remember going to see this movie with by best friend, when it first came out. We were so upset, watching the abuse that happened to Betty. We were actually yelling at the screen (like they could hear us). The last straw was when he hit his child in the school. We actually walked out of the theater, in tears. It was several years later that I finally watched the entire move on tv. I cried so much, during this movie. I was overjoyed that Betty was able to get herself and her daughter back to the United States. I can’t even begin to imagine the hell they both went through. If you have never seen this movie, you should. Sally Field did an amazing job portraying Betty. God Bless her and her beautiful daughter. I pray that they remain safe from this monster.
Denise Maynard another person commented her ex husband passed away in 2009.
Yes I pray God of heaven and earth sends his angels to watch over them !!
He was not a Monster. Just a practising Muslim following the Koran.
I absolutely love the movie, I am watching it now for the 5th time. Your story is heartfelt, and it demonstrated bravery and love. I wish you all the success in the world Betty, stay blessed🌷
That was an amazing book she wrote. I could not put it down!!!
I remember watching this with my mom when I was really young. Never forgot it. Betty is an inspiration. I'm grateful I was born in America. Where I am free. I equate being born in America to winning the lottery.
SHE has a little bit of Diana charm in the interview.
She looks like her. A Diana ordered from Temu.
She is an incredible person! I’m so impressed by her and her strength bravery and forgiveness! Brilliant!
Wonderful interview. It's so interesting getting to know the real Betty. The interviewer asked great questions. There were a few times when I wish the interviewer hadn't cut her off quite so quickly, though.
I read her book and was amazed that she and her daughter survived all that they endured.
My mom read this when we were kids and told us this story...I will always remember
This lady was strong, determined, and a survivor...I really couldn't imagine going through this....I appluade her for her courage to get back to the United States with her daughter...the movie got a thumbs up from me👍👍👍
@ᚪᚢᛏᚢᛗ ᚱᚪᛇᛝᚹᚪᛏᛠᚱ lololol okay. It’s her fault. Sure. 😂😂😂🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️
@ᚪᚢᛏᚢᛗ ᚱᚪᛇᛝᚹᚪᛏᛠᚱ and you sound like a fucking idiot 😂
Amen!!!🤗🙏🏼🕊❤
I read the book when it came out around 1990. I was riveted, and just couldnt put the book down. Then watched the movie a few years later. So interesting to see comments still being made, years after this interview.
I both read the book and saw the movie and thought what a miracle it was that Betty and her daughter survived given the dangerous and challenging situation they were in. Bless her for sharing it with us and also those Iranian people who were kind enough to help them. It shows there is a positive faith in all cultures along with the negative aspects. Thank you Betty and Mahtob 🌹♥️♥️🌹
me too! I did marry a Christian Arab. I tried leaving him. We had a child under age one. Under the pretext of wanting to spend time and shop for her, I let him take her. I got a phone call from him; come home or he was going to bring her to his homeland of Jordan; I would never see her again! I went home! However, next time I left; I moved across country!
@@bonnienero9415 I don’t know what the matter is with some of those Arab men and why they are so vindictive and controlling! Good for you for starting over elsewhere.
@@janeburton7647 amen
@@janeburton7647 It's called Patriarchy & the entire region reeks of its stench! Patriarchy has no religion; it's just cultural sexism.
I have always believed that religion in and of itself isn't the real problem. The real problem lies with the human adherents of these religions - they are the ones that dictate what the religion decides to teach you about how to live, it's the humans that want control over other humans - after all, as the Bible succinctly puts it: the human heart is inherently evil. So, in every religion there are those whose humanity will dictate how they act, and there are those who've completely lost this tiny spark of humanity, and will use religious dictates to impose their will and oppress others.
And thank you Sally Fields. You did an AMAZING job on that film!
And on the other movies as well, "Places in the heart"
Daniel Roberts. Just because her husband died it does not mean she is safe. His brother or cousins could carry on looking for her and her daughter forever.
F Morant and believe me she knows it too. Mahtob had to change schools frequently.
Isn't she like a adult now.
If you read the book - she said most of his family - uncles & cousins were against him holding her & treating her badly ... some even help her.
Naah tbh l don't think those lazy bastards wouldn't even bother they got enough baggage of their own to deal with. 😂
Me too I also read the book at the edge of my seat. It’s a book that you can’t put down ever, when you put the book down then the book is in your heart because it is that moving.Waw! What a book!
Is that only me that think she looks like Prince Diana
Mery G oh my God. I looked at all the comments to see if anyone else saw how much she looks like princess Diana. lol. I so agree.
True
Every body just discuss about her book in the comment and no 1 notice if she just look like the princess of Wales twin
Mery G No way
Yes you are. Get glasses
Your story immortalised through a movie serves as an example to all women in the world is that You are the change You make your future You decide your life. God bless your family and God help all those in need 👏🙏✝️❤
You're wrong Betty your husband was a monster. The father of your child was a monster to do that to your family is just plain wrong. He was always the monster. You just didn't see it at the time.
I feel for her. She still defends that evil man as a good father and good husband and says that she initiated beatings. That’s what he did to her mind.
So sad.
Domestic violence victims will try to minimize their abusers behavior. A part of her loves him but you can love someone and not be with them. Sometimes if you love someone you have to let them go because it’s unhealthy for you. It may sound crazy to say she still loved him when she did this interview but a lot of victims love their abuser
She doesn't want him coming back to USA and fulfilling his threat. Reason why she talks kindly about him.
Wow, I'm glad I was finally able to see the real woman behind this harrowing story!
What an incredible interview. I’ve watch this movie maybe 100 times, as it is one of my favorites. To hear the real Betty talking gave me goosebumps. I’m Israeli and I recognized immediately that the movie was made in Israel. I would have loved to meet Betty and Mattob (moonlight) one day! ❤
After seeing the film in the theater, I read the book -- the film barely scratches the surface of what Betty details of her ordeal in the book! Also read her book "For the Love of a Child" and came to appreciate the extreme difficulty of orchestrating the return of children who suffer international abduction by a parent from a different country/culture. That book immediately came to mind with the Elian Gonzalez case, where the boy was returned to his father in Cuba -- while Americans immediately imposed a value judgment that Elian would be better off in the US, Betty's book had clued me in to the fact that in order for the American government to help get American children returned to the US, they need to reciprocate and help facilitate the return of foreign kidnapped children to their own countries. The process has to remain a two-way street, or other governments can (and sometimes do) refuse to return our children. It's bad enough when a parent uses his/her own child as a pawn, but children should never suffer becoming the pawns of governments.
I watched Not Without My Daughter, with my daughter, it was a very good movie, makes us appreciate what we have.
Very much so Sally!🙏
Thank you Eileen for a great interview.
Thank God this woman is alive to tell her story 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾