‘That little devil is filming’: Director’s time with the Taliban

In August 2021, the world witnessed heartbreaking scenes of people desperately trying to flee Afghanistan as the Taliban took control of the capital, Kabul. After being ousted for many years, the Taliban returned to power following the withdrawal of the last American troops. While thousands of people were leaving the country, there were some, like Ibrahim Nash’at, an Egyptian journalist and filmmaker living in Germany, who were determined to enter Afghanistan. After much persistence, Nash’at received permission to stay in Afghanistan for up to a year to create a documentary focusing on the newly appointed Commander of the Air Force, Malawi Mansour, and a young Taliban lieutenant named MJ Mukhtar, who dreams of joining the air force and seeks revenge against the Americans. Now, three years after the Taliban regained control, Nash’at's documentary, titled 'Hollywoodgate', named after the abandoned CIA military base where much of the filming took place, reveals the complexities of life in Afghanistan under the Taliban. The film captures the transformation of the Taliban from a militia to a military regime, showcasing their efforts to establish a new order. Throughout the filming process, Nash’at faced numerous challenges, including being frequently told to stop filming. However, he managed to gather enough footage to create a fly-on-the-wall style documentary that provides a glimpse into the remnants of American military life, such as treadmills, signs for unisex toilets, and a fridge filled with alcohol. The documentary also highlights the staggering amount of military equipment left behind by the US, including aircraft and military vehicles. Nash’at expressed his shock at discovering the extent of what had been abandoned, questioning why the Americans left so much behind and how it would impact the future of Afghanistan. The film also features scenes of a military parade at Bagram Air Base, where the Taliban showcased the American weaponry they had acquired. Nash’at's documentary serves as a powerful commentary on the current state of Afghanistan, particularly the struggles faced by ordinary Afghans, especially women, who have been subjected to severe restrictions since the Taliban's return to power. The film portrays the harsh realities of life for many Afghans, emphasizing the pain and suffering experienced by the population. Nash’at hopes that by sharing these stories, viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the situation in Afghanistan and the challenges faced by its people. 'Hollywoodgate' is currently available in UK cinemas and on Curzon Home Cinema.