Afghan Stories (2002)

User Rating:

7.3/10   

Director:

Taran Davies

Writer:

Taran Davies (writer)

Release Date:

19 May 2003 (USA)

Genre:

Documentary

Plot:

Horrified by the 9/11 attacks on America, filmmaker Taran Davies and Afghan American, Walied Osman,...

Plot Keywords:

Refugee | Afghanistan | Bombing | War On Terrorism | Afghan Soviet War

Runtime:

USA:60 min

Country:

USA

Language:

English | Dari

Color:

Color

Sound Mix:

4-Track Stereo

Filming Locations:

Afghanistan

Company:

Wicklow Films

Milk and tea

I wish everyone could see this portrayal of life in Afghanistan. This is one of the best documentaries I have ever seen. It is such a beautiful and moving portrait of a strong and resilient country. This film shows Afghans as real people you can relate to and not stone-faced, robotic victims of war or pathetic, sad souls staring vacantly ahead. Their charm is evident in every minute of this film. I also applaud the film's lack of political agenda. There is no obvious bias evident here. It's simply a glimpse into the lives of some amazing people who happen to be from a country torn apart by war. It could just as easily be any of us. I don't see the Afghani people as victims, I see them as survivors. I hope in my lifetime I can see Afghanistan once again as a peaceful country. These people and their stories should never be forgotten. The filmmaker doesn't offer a lot of narrative--he lets the people tell their own story. There are poignant moments (the old woman crying at the video of her son, the small boys telling of having had only tea for lunch) but it doesn't veer into maudlin territory or a rant about the politics of war. It is just a simple and profound tribute to the people of this country. I loved it!! If you get a chance, SEE IT! Oh, gorgeous scenery, too. Reminds me of the mountains in the Arizona desert.