Experiencing Interruptions?

The Book Seller’s Daughter

In an old library, two people engage in a cryptic conversation. But this is no ordinary discussion about books—they use book titles as coded messages to secretly communicate, ensuring that even a third person or an unaware observer remains oblivious. Each book title they mention holds a deeper meaning, a hidden rule that must be followed. As their conversation unfolds, the tension builds. Will anyone uncover the truth?

Note:
This film is in Persian (Farsi) with English subtitles to ensure accessibility for international audiences. The subtitles have been carefully crafted to maintain the film's original tone and meaning.

  • Muhammad Abed Baryal
    Director
    I have edited ten films and have been awarded an honorary prize for my editing work. These experiences have helped me strengthen my directing and filmmaking skills and have brought me closer to my personal projects
  • Muhammad Abed Baryal
    Writer
  • Muhammad Abed Baryal
    Producer
    I have worked as a program producer and content creator for YouTube channels in Afghanistan, producing entertainment shows such as 'Kamar Makhfi' and hosting programs with notable figures from Afghanistan.
  • Azatullah Karimi
    Key Cast
    "Ahmad (The Boyfriend)"
  • Project Title (Original Language):
    دختر کتاب فروش
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Romance, Mystery
  • Runtime:
    3 minutes 1 second
  • Completion Date:
    June 6, 2021
  • Production Budget:
    13 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Afghanistan
  • Country of Filming:
    Afghanistan
  • Language:
    Persian
  • Shooting Format:
    iPhone X
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Muhammad Abed Baryal

Muhammad Abed Baryal
(Born October 1, 2000) is an Afghan editor, director, and actor born in Wazir Muhammad Akbar Khan, Kabul. His films, primarily in the thriller and drama genres, have been released through YouTube channels.

Early Life and Career
Muhammad Abed Baryal developed an interest in films and acting at the age of ten. In 2012, when he was just 12 years old, he participated in a film directed by his father, Bahramuddin Baryal, where he played a small role. He acted alongside Abdul Ahmad Khaksar, one of Afghanistan’s most famous and beloved artists.

In 2017, he began collaborating with his father in cinematography and editing, which led him to edit and direct multiple films.

Films Directed by Muhammad Abed Baryal
Short film The Book Seller’s Daughter (2021)
Short film Behind the Door (2022)
Archive documentary Children

Films Edited by Muhammad Abed Baryal
Artistic film: Natijeh (2018)
Mini-series: Goncheha Par Par Mishavad (2019)
Film: Farar az Watan (2022)
Artistic film: Ishq Bar Bad Rakhteh (2022)
Artistic film: Dard-e Watan (2022)

Awards and Achievements
Winner of the Did-Naw Festival Award (2022)
- Recognized as one of the best editors among Afghan artists
- Collaborated with Salim Shaheen, one of Afghanistan’s leading filmmakers and producers

Education and Influences
Muhammad Abed Baryal has never attended a film schooldue to the lack of such institutions in Afghanistan. He has also never taken directing coursesbut believes he has learned filmmaking from his father, Bahramuddin Baryal, since childhood.

He cites Alfred Hitchcock, Stanley Kubrick, David Fincher, Steven Spielberg, and James Cameron as his biggest influences in cinematography and filmmaking. He also has a strong passion for James Bond 007 films

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

This film is more than just a cinematic project for me—it was an emotional journey, as it was my first work. I initially came across this story online, but due to certain challenges, I made changes and added elements to it. At the time, I was watching the TV series *You*, where the main character uses books to solve his problems. Inspired by this, I wanted to use book titles to symbolize the thin line between love and secrecy in a relationship.

What fascinated me was the idea of two people communicating in a hidden language within an old library. Through this narrative, I aimed to showcase the power of words and secrecy in society. With minimal resources and only an **iPhone X**, I started this project with a friend who served as the cinematographer. My goal was not just to make a film, but to create a strong and impactful experience.

I hope this film engages the audience and makes them think.