THE BOY WHO PLAYS ON THE BUDDHAS OF BAMIYAN
Großbritannien 2003 – Director: Phil Grabsky – Original language: dari – Subtitles: English – Length: 96 min.
The attack on the World Trade Centre was not the first time in 2001 that Afghanistan made international headlines. In March of that year, the Taliban demolished the ancient immense Buddhas of Bamiyan, causing a worldwide uproar.
Less attention was paid to the hundreds of refugees living in the caves near the statues. Many people had fled there to escape the bloody rule of the Taliban. As long as the Buddhas existed, tourists would at times slip them a little money. Today, the breathtaking landscape is strewn with debris, the shops and houses have been destroyed.
Eight-year-old Mir is the main character of the film. He is a fun, cheeky, inquisitive, energetic and bright boy. He also lives in one of the caves. Director Phil Grabsky spent one year with him and his family recording their struggle to survive. Especially the harsh winter is a difficult time, with barely enough heat and food.
Other members of the community also relate their stories. They tell of the atrocities committed by the Taliban and about the time, when life was good in Afghanistan, before the Russians arrived. The children are their hope for the future. Perhaps they will be the ones to benefit from the slow reforms. Still, the only possible conclusion is that these people have been deserted - by one and by all.
The Boy who plays on the Buddhas of Bamiyan is a lively and unconventional portrait of a devastated country and its people.
Courage Award at the Santa Barbara Festival 2004
Writer: Phil Grabsky. Camera: Phil Grabsky. Sound: Phil Grabsky. Editing: Phil Reynolds. Music: Dimitri Tchamournoff, Dawood Sarkosh. Production: Amanda Wilkie. Producer: Amanda Wilkie.
