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Afghan Girl’s Journey to Identity

“Afghan Girl’s Journey to Identity” is a powerful documentary that follows the life of a young Afghan woman born in Iran, yet denied an official identity. Iranian laws prevent those without Iranian parentage from obtaining citizenship, leaving her stateless and without rights in the only country she has known. At 30, she decides to take the bold step of returning to Afghanistan, a land she’s never seen, to claim a sense of belonging.

Her journey unfolds against the dramatic backdrop of Afghanistan’s last days as a republic. As she navigates her path to recognition, the Taliban seizes power, plunging the country into uncertainty. The film captures her struggle to assert her identity amidst political chaos, revealing the complexities and contradictions of Afghan society.

More than just a personal quest, the documentary paints a vivid picture of Afghanistan’s social landscape—its ethnic divides, cultural heritage, and the unique challenges faced by its women. It explores themes of identity, belonging, and the profound beauty hidden within a country often defined by conflict.

“Afghan Girl’s Journey to Identity” is a thought-provoking narrative that compels audiences to reflect on the meaning of identity, the impact of borders, and the power of resilience in the face of adversity.

  • Hamed Saadat
    Director
  • Hamed Saadat
    Writer
  • Hamed Saadat
    Producer
  • Nezamodin Ghorbanpour
    Producer
  • Marzia
    Key Cast
  • Mostafa Rabbani
    Editor
  • Project Title (Original Language):
    تذکره
  • Project Type:
    Documentary
  • Genres:
    Drama
  • Runtime:
    52 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    May 10, 2024
  • Country of Origin:
    Iran, Islamic Republic of
  • Country of Filming:
    Afghanistan
  • Language:
    English, Persian
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Hamed Saadat

Hamed Sa’adat, born in Kerman in 1983, is an acclaimed Iranian documentary filmmaker known for his deep exploration of social and cultural themes, particularly in Iran and Afghanistan. With a background in Cinema, Sa’adat began his career in 2007 and has since directed numerous impactful films that delve into human rights, identity, and the struggles of marginalized communities.

Notable Works:

Afghan Girl’s Journey to Identity: A compelling documentary following an Afghan woman’s quest for identity, navigating complex cultural and legal landscapes.
The Man Who Fossilized: Recognized at the Roshd Film Festival for Best International Documentary.
Victory Over the Sun: A thought-provoking piece screened at several prestigious Iranian festivals.
Achievements:

Winner of the Best Documentary Award at the WRPN TV Awards, USA.
Multiple nominations and accolades from the Tehran International Short Film Festival and the Fajr Film Festival.
Style and Vision:

Sa’adat’s documentaries are celebrated for their authenticity and focus on socio-political issues, often reflecting the challenges faced by marginalized communities. His work invites viewers to see beyond the surface and engage deeply with the subjects.

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Director Statement

Creating Afghan Girl’s Journey to Identity was an intense experience, made more challenging by the shifting political landscape in Afghanistan. Filming during the Taliban’s return to power added a layer of complexity and urgency to the project. Amidst these difficulties, our goal remained clear: to capture an honest portrayal of Afghan culture and the resilience of its women, without interference or staging. This film is a testament to the courage of a young woman navigating her identity, set against the backdrop of a country in turmoil.