Honorable Mention Documentary – Afghan Cinema Exists
Filmmaker:  Ali Orokzai
University: George Mason University
Country: USA

Synopsis

The film tells the story of the Taliban and religious leaders who are against Afghan cinema and any form of art in Afghanistan.  During the long period of war in Afghanistan artists and movie makers tried to bring the art back like before regardless of the barriers created by extremist groups. 

About the filmmaker

Ali Orokzai ( Persian: علی اورکزی, born in Kabul, Afghanistan‎) is an Afghan American movie maker and actor who has appeared in films such as Why?, Yesterday and Taboo. He is the son of well known Afghan movie maker and actor Saeed Orokzai who is notable for his films such as Mardara Qawl Ast (Men keep their promise), Khakestar (Ash), and Safar (Journey)