Afghan Cinema’s Rising Voice: How ‘No Good Men’ Signals a Shift in Global Storytelling
The 2026 Berlin Film Festival is set to open with Shahrbanoo Sadat’s No Good Men, a film already generating significant buzz. But this isn’t just about a festival opening; it’s a powerful indicator of evolving trends in global cinema, particularly the increasing prominence of Afghan filmmakers and the demand for authentic, politically charged narratives. The selection highlights a growing appetite for stories originating from regions often underrepresented on the international stage.
The Power of Personal Narratives in a Globalized World
Sadat’s work, including her previous critically acclaimed films Wolf and Sheep (2016) and Parwareshgah (The Orphanage, 2019), consistently focuses on the lives of Afghan women. This focus isn’t accidental. Audiences are increasingly drawn to deeply personal stories that offer a window into different cultures and experiences. A 2023 Nielsen report showed a 27% increase in streaming viewership of international films and series compared to 2020, demonstrating a clear shift in consumer preferences.
No Good Men, based on the autobiographical writings of Anwar Hashimi, further amplifies this trend. The film’s synopsis – a camerawoman questioning her beliefs about Afghan men amidst the backdrop of the Taliban’s return – is inherently compelling. It’s a story rooted in lived experience, offering nuance and complexity often missing from mainstream portrayals of Afghanistan. This aligns with the success of films like Flee (2021), an animated documentary about an Afghan refugee, which garnered widespread critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination.
International Co-Productions: A Lifeline for Independent Filmmakers
The fact that No Good Men is an international co-production – involving Germany, France, Norway, Denmark, and Afghanistan – is crucial. Co-productions are becoming increasingly vital for independent filmmakers, particularly those working in politically unstable regions. They provide access to funding, resources, and distribution networks that would otherwise be unavailable.
According to the European Film Forum, co-productions accounted for over 30% of all European film productions in 2022. This trend is expected to continue as filmmakers seek to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes and secure financial stability. The Berlinale’s support for Sadat’s earlier work through the World Cinema Fund further underscores the importance of these initiatives.
Risk and Representation: The Courage of Afghan Storytellers
Tricia Tuttle, director of the Berlinale, explicitly highlighted the risk Sadat took to create this film. This isn’t merely a dramatic flourish; it’s a stark reality for Afghan filmmakers, especially women. The Taliban’s restrictions on artistic expression have forced many artists into exile, and those who remain face constant threats.
Sadat’s willingness to continue telling these stories, even in the face of adversity, is incredibly powerful. It speaks to the importance of representation and the role of cinema in amplifying marginalized voices. This echoes the work of other courageous filmmakers like Hassan Fazili, whose documentary A Thousand Girls Like Me (2018) explored the challenges faced by Afghan girls seeking education.
The Future of Afghan Cinema: Hope and Resilience
Sadat’s statement – “Growing up in Afghanistan’s deeply patriarchal society, I believed there were no good men – until I found out another reality exists, and I hope this film offers young women hope and young men an example” – is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling. Her work isn’t simply about documenting reality; it’s about shaping a more hopeful future.
The success of No Good Men could pave the way for more Afghan filmmakers to gain international recognition and funding. It could also inspire a new generation of storytellers to challenge societal norms and advocate for positive change. The film’s focus on romance and humor within a political context is particularly noteworthy, demonstrating that even in the darkest of times, there is room for joy and connection.
Did you know? The Afghan Film Organization, despite facing significant challenges, continues to support local filmmakers and promote Afghan cinema both domestically and internationally.
FAQ
Q: What is the Berlinale?
A: The Berlinale, or Berlin International Film Festival, is one of the world’s leading film festivals, known for showcasing a diverse range of cinematic works.
Q: Who is Shahrbanoo Sadat?
A: Shahrbanoo Sadat is an Afghan film director known for her powerful and insightful films focusing on the lives of Afghan women.
Q: What is an international film co-production?
A: An international film co-production involves collaboration between production companies from multiple countries, sharing financial and creative responsibilities.
Q: Where was ‘No Good Men’ filmed?
A: Despite being an Afghan story, ‘No Good Men’ was filmed in locations across Germany.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on film festivals like Cannes, Venice, and Toronto for emerging talent and groundbreaking films from underrepresented regions.
Want to learn more about independent film and global cinema? Explore our archive of articles here. Share your thoughts on No Good Men and the future of Afghan cinema in the comments below!
