YOSEF BARAKI | CANADA, AFGHANISTAN | 2015 | 110' | DARI WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES
What's it like for a 12-year-old girl to live in the Afghan capital of Kabul? With his documentary-like feature debut, director Yosef Baraki – originally from Afghanistan, but now residing in Canada – wanted to offer viewers a chance to get a feel of this. He succeeded admirably in doing so, as is testified by the praise he received during the past Berlin Film Festival, where Mina Walking had its world premiere. The words of praise were largely directed to 12-year-old protagonist Farzana Nawabi, who dazzles with her believable and engaging acting performance. A remarkable achievement as Baraki gave her –as well as all other non–professional actors involved – only a global story as a guide. The dialogues evolved on the spot. She does this with gusto, and the camera stays on her.
Mina, an impulsive 12-year-old, can be found in the busy and chaotic streets of Kabul each and every day, where she sells all kinds of trinkets. The money she earns goes to supporting her heroin addicted father and Alzheimer stricken grandfather. She doesn't really have time for school, but she still tries to attend classes occasionally. Her biggest concern is her father.
Screening:
Venue: Rialto
SUN 16 AUG – 14:00 (preceded by short Angelus Novus) 