IRISH PREMIERE
After 30 years of war and Taliban rule, pop culture is returning to Afghanistan. Afghan Star, a Pop Idol-style TV series, has captured the public imagination, and each week millions tune in to watch as 2,000 contestants from across the country compete for a cash prize and record deal. In Afghanistan, however, the stakes are higher. For many, voting by phone on Afghan Star is their first encounter of democracy. This timely and inspired film follows the dramatic and moving stories of four young contestants as they risk all to become the nation’s favourite singer. But will they attain the freedom they hope for in this vulnerable and traditional nation?
2009 Sundance Awards: World Cinema Directing Award
(Documentary) & World Cinema Audience Award (Documentary)