ABOUT THE ARTIST
Why did you submit to the Fourth Annual Chashama Film Festival?
I submitted to the Chashama Film Festival because of its mission statement, specifically the following:“focus on societal change brought on by clashing philosophical and sociological ideals” and “What can we do, individually and as a society, to avert disaster?” These are the same questions I asked in my film.
How is your work illustrative of the country you are from?
Since WWII, the US has decided to be the “Policeman of the World.” This began with the “Domino Theory” which got us into Viet Nam, and then into untold global horrors, including our battle in Afghanistan against the Russians. So, in my film, when Yasin says “It is not Afghanistan’s war, it is other countries’ war in Afghanistan,” he is speaking a profound global truth. This illustrates the political theory of my country, USA, and its involvement in wars since WWII.
Where was the most favorite place where your work was shown abroad? If it hasn’t been shown abroad, where would you like it to be shown?
It has been shown in Spain at the Mediu Gueyu Film Festival. They really loved the point of view, especially because it helped explain the roots to the war in Afghanistan, and not a pro US military piece. I am finding out that our film is more popular in Europe than in US because in US people want to see the fighting, but in Europe they are more interested in the causes and possible solutions, which our film discusses.
I would like to see it shown in Afghanistan.
Are you glad that your work is going to be shown in NYC?
Yes, I am thrilled! I think the US needs to listen to the voices of 3rd world countries, and my film gives voice to the people of Afghanistan. If we could put money into education and small businesses, as the people in my film suggest, we could actually help Afghanistan get back on its feet, instead of continually fueling the war.
What is the best part about participating in a festival that facilitates discussion with international artists?
As filmmakers, we are capable of wielding a powerful tool of communication. It is vital that we interact with international artists so that our films reflect tolerance, insight, and knowledge. I look forward to meeting international artists and discussing both the art of filmmaking and their point of view on international issues.
ABOUT A RESPONSE TO THE FESTIVAL
What is it about chaos that is most upsetting to you?
I am comfortable with chaos. It is the nature of our world. What is upsetting to me is that other people are not comfortable with chaos…and that is tragic, because they cannot escape it, they fear it, and they panic, and make horrible decisions. If you have ever been a Mom or a teacher or a documentary filmmaker, then chaos is your friend, and you learn to dance with her…and you discover beautiful solutions you would have never found on your own.
I also like the idea of entropy…a measure of disorder…that can only decrease in one system by increasing in another. I think that can be applied to political theory. We are all in flux.
What’s the most rapid social change that you have ever seen?
I saw rapid social change from 1967 to 1980. I was a freshman in college in 1967. I became aware of the political scene…and from that time I watched and fought for the withdrawal from Viet Nam, the advancements in Human Rights, the Latin American Revolutions, and the momentous Women’s Rights movement.
How do you find strength in instability?
Maybe it is the thrill, like surfing, keeping our balance in front of each wave, being able to dance with the rhythm of the Universe instead of trying to lead. Riding the chaos gives me more strength and belief in myself than trying to force my will upon it…it is also much more successful!
What do you do to divert disaster?
I follow the advice of Joseph Campbell and find joy in the midst of disaster…first for myself, and then for others. Here is how he said it: “The first step is the recognition of the monstrous nature of life; the realization that this is just how it is and that it cannot and will not be changed. So if you really want to help this world, what you will have to teach is how to live in it. And that no one can do who has not himself learned how to live in it in the joyful sorrow and the sorrowful joy of the knowledge of life as it is. We cannot cure the world of sorrows, but we can choose to live in Joy.”
If you could make a community more peaceful, what would be fulfilling about it?
Peace would allow individuals the opportunity to rise above pure survival instincts…and that would be fulfilling.
ABOUT YOUR FILM
How did you choose your thematic material?
I was angry about the war in Afghanistan and I needed to understand it better.
How do you work with actors? Or How do you choose your interview subjects?
I choose my subjects through research ahead of time, then once I get on location, through pre-interviews, hanging out and talking with them, seeing who is articulate and willing to work with me and has a story to tell.
How did you choose the crew on the film?
My crew was one other person: Frank Kraljic. Frank was a student of mine years ago. I am the founding director of The Film School at Scottsdale Community College. He had become a great cinematographer and traveler. I had him come to my Documentary Class and show his footage from Africa which was stunning. So Frank was the perfect choice – someone I knew and trusted, who was a great DP, and crazy enough to go with me to Afghanistan.
Why did you choose to make a film that length?
We made it for a ½ hr television show.
What is the most compelling image in your film?
Mystical mountains covered in snow.
Text compiled by Marcina Zaccaria