Provincetown International Film Festival 2009

-Sponsored by The New England Institute of Art After 30 years of war and Taliban-rule, pop culture has returned to Afghanistan. "Afghan Star" - an "American Idol" - style TV series - is searching the country for the next generation of music stars. Over 2,000 people are auditioning and even three women have come forward to try their luck. The organizers, Tolo TV, believe with this program they can "move people from guns to music," but in a troubled country like Afghanistan, even music is controversial. Considered sacrilegious and at times outright banned, music has come to symbolize freedom for the youth, and many of those taking part are literally risking their lives. But the old guard warlords and religious elite have more to worry about than just music: millions of people watch the show and vote via cell phone for their favorite singers. For many, this is the first time they have encountered democracy. AFGHAN STAR documents the three-month process from regional auditions to the final in Kabul. The filmmakers gained unprecedented access to the lives of contestants, fans and producers, revealing the true hopes and dreams of Afghan youth: their desire for peace, education and freedom to express themselves. And despite the backdrop of conflict, corruption and repression, this youthful optimism prevails as funny, articulate and ultimately inspiring. In English, Pashtu and Dari with English subtitles Print Source: Zeitgeist Films