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Taskovski Films has secured the distribution rights for ‘Paikar’, the debut documentary feature from the Afghan-Dutch director Dawood Hilmandi. This film is set to premiere at the prestigious International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA), specifically in the Luminous section, which showcases exceptional storytelling.
Hilmandi’s background is steeped in the complexities of war and exile. Growing up in Afghanistan and later as a refugee, he was shaped by the formidable presence of his father, Baba. Baba, a former mujahideen fighter turned imam, poet, and writer, wielded an authority that often silenced the voices of those in his household. Yet, beneath Baba’s stern exterior lay a reflective spirit, whose subtle expressions hinted at a profound emotional depth.
Reconnecting through shared history
As Hilmandi navigates his journey back to his father’s side amidst life’s inevitable losses, he embarks on a quest not only to understand Baba but also to bridge the emotional chasm that has long existed between them. The film unfolds as they trace the father’s footsteps through pivotal locations in Afghanistan, Iran, and Iraq, cities burdened with tales of faith, violence, and the bittersweet nature of exile and return.
A narrative of invisible scars
Irena Taskovski, who leads acquisitions at Taskovski Films, emphasized that ‘Paikar’ resonates with the unspoken traumas that individuals endure while living in conflict’s shadow. According to her, though the narrative is grounded in Afghanistan, its themes of familial division caused by war, silence, and ideological differences echo universally. The film serves as a poignant reminder that humanity often transcends the confines of historical events.
Celebrating resilience in Diego Gutiérrez’s ‘The Shipwrecked’
In a similar vein, Taskovski Films has also acquired another documentary titled ‘The Shipwrecked’, directed by Mexican-Dutch filmmaker Diego Gutiérrez. This feature is set to premiere in the International Competition at IDFA, echoing the festival’s commitment to showcasing impactful stories.
‘The Shipwrecked’ follows the journey of a filmmaker who, disillusioned with his craft, returns to Mexico. Here, he encounters a tapestry of narratives from everyday people confronting remarkable challenges. These poignant stories range from a church restorer striving to preserve cultural heritage to young biologists discovering love amidst ecological crises, as well as a young man transforming a luxury resort into a community garden.
Highlighting acts of courage
The film is a celebration of small yet significant acts of bravery and resilience in a nation grappling with deep-seated issues of inequality, corruption, and environmental change. Irena Taskovski expressed excitement about presenting ‘The Shipwrecked’ to international audiences, noting its relevance to contemporary social and ecological dilemmas.
With the collaboration of producers like Carmen Cobos from Cobos Films, the project aims to ensure that Gutiérrez’s intimate narratives resonate with viewers who are passionate about pressing social and environmental matters. The film’s unique blend of personal stories and universal questions about hope and responsibility elevates its narrative quality.
Bringing important stories to light
The screenwriting for ‘The Shipwrecked’ involves the talents of Gutiérrez, Kees Rijninks, and Tamara Vuurmans, with editing contributions from Gutiérrez and Albert Markus. The cinematography, co-captured by Gutiérrez and Miguel Labastida, adds a visual richness to the storytelling.
Supported by the Netherlands Film Fund and the CoBO Fund, along with distribution handled by Cinema Delicatessen, both ‘Paikar’ and ‘The Shipwrecked’ symbolize a commitment to meaningful cinema that not only entertains but also engages viewers with urgent themes. These films remind audiences of the power of personal narratives set against the backdrop of larger societal issues, making them essential viewing in today’s context.