Movie Review: Kandahar
Nefas (Nelofer Pazira), an Afghani woman living in Canada, receives a disturbing letter from her sister who still lives in Afghanistan. The letter speaks of her sisters despair and hints that her sister will be committing suicide. Nafas knows she must go to her sister but she also knows the journey will not be easy. Afghanistan is not safe for anyone but it is especially not safe for women. Will Nafas be able to get to her sister in time?
Mohsen Makhmalbaf has put together a stunning film in Kandahar (2001). He shows the plight of Nefas and the Afghani people in a very raw style that captures the harshness and loneliness of the Afghan landscape. The characters feel real and the story is not one that is over dramatized. This film was meant to show the viewer what Afghanistan is really like. Nelofer Pazira, who plays Nefas, actually went on a similar journey that the film was based on. Her acting isn’t so much acting as it is her reliving a real experience making it even more powerful. If you get the special edition DVD you will be able to learn more about Nelofer’s real life journey in the special features.
I recommend taking this film in if you have a chance. I will warn you though: the film is not entertaining, it is eye opening and a bit depressing. However, it is well worth watching as you will learn a lot about life in Afghanistan. Looking forward to reading your comments on this film.
