- Title: Afghan Star
- Date: 7th April 2009
- Description:**Winner of the 2009 Grierson Awards for Best Documentary On Contemporary Issues** The Story of Afghanistan's First Ever 'Pop-Idol' Competition This inspiring and brilliant film,produced and directed by Havana Marking for More 4 follows a number of hopefuls as they compete to be become Afghanistan's pop idol in a competition almost unthinkable after 30 years of Taliban rule,war and unrest. Through the eyes of young,talented and ambitious pop hopefuls all competing to become the next Afghan Star we experience the birth of a new,optimistic Afghanistan. 10 years ago in Afghanistan if you sang,danced or even listened to music you risked imprisonment or even deathand#8230; Now there is a new phenomena taking the country by storm. Based on Pop Idol,the TV series and#8220;AFGHAN STARand#8221; has been taken to the nation's heart,allowing Afghans to rediscover their musical and artistic culture. But for many Afghans,music can still bring danger. For Lema,a courageous nineteen year old,living in the Taliban heartland of the south,to audition is to risk her life. At each broadcast her family prays for a power cut so that her neighbours won't see her sing. and#8220;AFGHAN STARand#8221; is more than just a game show. If offers hope and inspiration to the youth of Afghanistan,lifting the people from their daily security nightmare. As the drama of the elimination rounds unfold,this film will explore the issues of gender,democracy,free press,and above all the power of music in this scarred and fragile nation. Awards Winner World Cinema Directing Award: Documentary - Sundance Film Festival 2009. Winner World Cinema Audience Award: Documentary - Sundance Film Festival 2009. Winner Best Cultural Documentary Award: The Prix Italia 2009.
- Collection: Channel 4
- Genre:Music
- Producer:Roast Beef Productions
- Transmission Date:07/04/2009
- Rights:On Request
- Decade: 2000s