This morning I woke up early, bought my obligatory cup of coffee on Main Street, and then took the bus to a morning screening of Afghan Star. The film follows four contestants on the Afghani version of American Idol! I have reviewed a number of documentaries about Afghanistan for The WIP – and Afghan Star was the first film that showed Afghans smiling and happy! The film, which I hope to review, captures the cultural and generational differences that continue to divide Afghanistan, so it’s not all fun and singing. I was so impressed with how organically the documentary evolved, and how courageous the two female contestants were in the face of an oppressive patriarchal society.

When I left the theater, I couldn’t help but shake my booty (something forbidden on the reality show) all the way down the street. The two finalists of Afghan Star are planning international tours, and I can’t wait!