Afghan Star (2009)
Roast Beef Productions

Description

After 30 years of war and Taliban rule, pop culture has returned to Afghanistan. Millions are watching Afghan Star - a Pop Idol-style TV series in which people from across the country compete for a cash prize and record deal. 2000 people audition, including three brave women. The viewers vote for their favorite singers by mobile phone and for many this is their first encounter with democracy. This timely film follows the dramatic stories of four young contestants as they compete but it takes a terrifying turn as one young woman dances on stage, threatening her own safety and the future of the show itself. In Afghanistan you risk your life to sing.

Tags

2000s, Afghanistan, Talent contest, Taliban

Collected reviews and ratings

8.0 The Guardian | Vanessa Thorpe

The weekly show had become a national phenomenon, penetrating into strictly religious areas, bridging the gender divide and challenging fundamentalist attitudes.
Read full review (Cinema)