Watch Far from Afghanistan

Far from Afghanistan is a collaborative work of five acclaimed independent directors: John Gianvito, Jon Jost, Minda Martin, Travis Wilkerson, and Soon-Mi Yoo. The film presents an anthology of documentary footage, fictional scenes, interviews, and poetry to reveal the devastating and long-lasting impact of the war in Afghanistan. Far from Afghanistan is a deeply personal and haunting film that offers a unique perspective on America's longest war. The directors' vision for the film is to show the human cost of war and the impact it has on the people involved, from soldiers to civilians. The film chronicles the decades-long conflict from the 1979 Soviet invasion to the present-day American occupation, and the many ways it has destroyed the country's social, economic, and political structures.

The film opens with a series of vivid collages of daily life in Afghanistan, from bustling streets to peaceful landscapes. These images are juxtaposed with harrowing footage of bombings and drone strikes, emphasizing the brutal reality of living in a warzone. The directors do not shy away from showing the devastating effects of the war on Afghan civilians, highlighting the toll it has taken on families and communities.

The film also features interviews with Afghan journalists, activists, and artists who provide their firsthand accounts of life under occupation. They discuss the corruption of the Afghan government, the failure of Western aid programs, and the ongoing violence and instability that plagues the country. These interviews are often interspersed with poetry and other artistic expressions, creating a powerful and emotional portrait of a country in crisis.

Throughout the film, the directors also explore the American involvement in the conflict. They examine the impact of US military action on Afghan civilians, the political justification for the war, and the flawed rationale behind the fight against terrorism. The film is particularly effective at showing the disconnect between American policy and on-the-ground realities in Afghanistan.

One notable scene features actor and theater director Andre Gregory reading a monologue written by poet Robert Bly. The monologue is a scathing indictment of the American government's misguided foreign policy, and Gregory's performance is both powerful and captivating. This scene is just one example of the film's use of poetry and art to explore the human cost of war.

Far from Afghanistan is not an easy film to watch. Its unflinching depictions of violence, poverty, and suffering are often overwhelming. However, the film's strong focus on personal stories and voices provides a unique and important perspective on the war in Afghanistan. The film is an urgent call for peace and an end to the violence that has plagued the country for so long.

Overall, Far from Afghanistan is an impressive and thought-provoking work of collaborative filmmaking. Its focus on human stories and the impact of war is a poignant reminder of the true costs of conflict. The film is an essential viewing for anyone interested in the ongoing war in Afghanistan, as well as those interested in the intersection of art and documentary.