“No Good Men” to Open Berlin Film Festival, Sparking Debate on Afghan Patriarchy
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A groundbreaking new film exploring the complexities of Afghan society, “No Good Men,” has been selected to open the upcoming Berlin International Film Festival.The film, directed by Shahrbanoo Sadat, has been picked up for international sales by French company Lucky Number, who will begin marketing it at the European Film Market next month adn unveil first-look images.
The project represents a important moment in Sadat’s career, following her critically acclaimed films “Wolf and Sheep” (2016) and “The orphanage” (2019), both of which premiered at Cannes’ Directors’ Fortnight. “No Good Men” marks her first time opening the prestigious Berlinale,solidifying her position as a leading voice in contemporary Afghan cinema.
A Story of Resilience on the Brink of Change
Set in Kabul in 2021, just prior to the Taliban’s resurgence, the film centers on Naru, portrayed by sadat herself, who is the sole female camerawoman at Afghanistan’s primary television station. Naru’s life is elaborate by a custody battle with her estranged husband, leading her to believe “no good men” exist in her country.This conviction is challenged when Qodrat, a highly influential journalist at the station, presents her with a career-defining chance.
As Naru and qodrat navigate the city documenting the final days of relative freedom in Afghanistan, a delicate romance blossoms, forcing her to confront her deeply held beliefs within a society rife with systemic inequality. The narrative blends elements of comedy, romance, and political urgency, offering a nuanced portrayal of the limited spaces where Afghan women carve out autonomy.
Challenging Societal norms and Facing Risk
“‘No Good Men’ addresses what I believe is the deepest and most enduring problem of Afghan society, and beyond: patriarchy,” Sadat stated. the film is notable for reportedly featuring the first onscreen kiss in an Afghan feature film-a bold move that underscores the inherent risks associated with its production and distribution. due to the volatile political climate, filming took place entirely in Germany, though the entire cast is comprised of Afghan actors.
The film is the third installment in a planned five-part series inspired by the autobiographical writings of author and actor anwar Hashimi, who also stars in “No Good Men.” According to Sadat, the project aims to move beyond simplistic narratives surrounding Afghanistan, highlighting that the oppressive structures existed long before 2021 and are deeply ingrained in the social fabric, while also acknowledging the Afghan men who actively resist this system.
International Collaboration and Distribution
“No Good Men” is a collaborative effort, produced by Germany and Denmark’s Adomeit Film (“The Square”), alongside co-producers including france’s La Fabrica Nocturna Cinéma, Norway’s Motlys, Germany’s Amerikafilm, Afghanistan’s Wolf Pictures, and Sweden’s Film i Väst. The film received substantial public funding from various German sources, including MOIN Filmförder Hamburg Schleswig-Holstein and the German Federal Film Board (FFA).
Distribution agreements are already in place for key territories, including Denmark (Camera Film), Norway (Norsk Filmdistribusjon), France (Condor Films), and Germany (Eksystent). Lucky Number’s co-founders lauded the film as “audacious and groundbreaking,” praising Sadat’s determination in completing the project “against all odds.”
Lucky number’s current slate also includes Felipe Barbosa’s “Leila et La Nuit” and Christophe Reveille’s documentary “Che Guevera: The Last Companions,” which will be showcased at the Unifrance Rendez-Vous With French Cinema event. “No Good Men” promises to be a powerful and timely contribution to the global conversation surrounding women’s rights, political upheaval, and the enduring struggle for freedom.
Worth a look
