The documentary which is a co-production between Ireland, Belgium, Holland and Afghanistan will screen as part of the International feature stream at the festival, running from December 8th-17th.
‘Land of the Enlightened’ is co-produced by Fastnet Films and was shot by Director director Pieter-Jan De Pue on 16mm film over seven years in war-torn Afghanistan.
It captures the country in flux as children from the Kuchi tribe sell explosives from Soviet mines to other young miners, with gangs of boys clashing to control trade routes and smuggle precious stones, all the while willing American soldiers to withdraw from their land.
It is one of seventy-two films included in the line-up, which also sees the standout BIFA winner ‘American Honey’ screen in the Panorama stream.
Andrea Arnold’s feature took home four BIFA Awards last weekend, including Irish cinematographer Robbie Ryan’s Outstanding Achievement in Craft.
‘Notes on Blindness’, the UK documentary based on the audiocassette diaries of John Hughes will also screen, featuring Irish Actress Simone Kirby (Jimmy’s Hall). This title also recently achieved the BIFA Award for Best Documentary.
Nicole Guillemet, Program Director:
“Each of the filmmakers had the courage and talent to inspire, challenge, surprise and entertain with their unique creative voice…The selected films bring to the screen the most challenging issues of our time; environment, human rights, family or personal dramas, empowerment of women and youth. Each story will touch the audience for its authenticity, originality and style."
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