Afghan Film Post-Produced in Iran Picked for 2020 Oscars

The movie, which was unveiled at the Venice International Film Festival this year, is the first feature film by Afghan documentary maker Sahra Karimi, who has also made the film “Afghan Women at the Wheel.”

In this film, Karimi challenges common clichés about Afghanistan, especially with regards to women. She recounts the story of life of three women from three different social classes in today’s Kabul each of whom faces different challenges.

“Hava, Maryam, Ayesha” is a production of Afghanistan’s independent cinema, and made in real locations in the streets of Kabul despite insecurity which has made filming difficult in the country.

The movie was produced by Iranian producer Katayoon Shahabi, an independent Iranian producer who has produced this movie as well. All post-production work of the movies was done in Iran.

Meanwhile, Shahabi runs two international productions and broadcast companies, namely the international Shahrzad media outlet in Iran and Noori Pictures in France.

She considers “Hava, Maryam, Ayesha” as a serious move and a new look in Afghanistan’s cinema, which can be a good representative of the new generation of Afghanistan’s cinema artists.

Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie has also hailed “Hava, Maryam, Ayesha” as a film which portrays the delicacy, beauty and spirit of Afghan women with regards to marriage, love, friendship, family and maternity. She has also said any film made in Afghanistan is a victory against injustice and reminiscent of everything related to millions of Afghan women at a time when the future of the country is rife with jeopardy.

The final list of nominees for the 2020 Academy Awards will be announced on Janaury 13. The award-giving ceremony will be on February 9.