Human Rights Watch Film Festival: "The Etilaat Roz"

June 1-8, 2023
In-cinema screenings at Film at Lincoln Center's Elinor Bunin Munroe Film Center
144 West 65th Street, south side between Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue
New York, NY, 10023, United States
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The Human Rights Watch Film Festival is back in NYC cinemas and online across the US from May 31- June 11, with live discussions at every in-cinema event. This year’s edition covers a broad range of themes and topics – but what shines through is the determination and courage of individuals to stand up for their freedom and rights.

The Dart Center is a presenting partner for "The Etilaat Roz."In August 2021, staff at the most widely read newspaper in Kabul, ‘Etilaat Roz’, are left with an impossible choice after the Taliban seize power: stay and continue reporting—risking torture, imprisonment, and death—or join thousands of others attempting to flee the country. ‘Etilaat Roz’ staff member Abbas Rezaie films his colleagues as they navigate the days that changed their lives and the direction of the country.   

From inside the office of the city’s most widely read newspaper, The Etilaat Roz is a first-hand account of the 2021 takeover of Kabul by the Taliban. Afghan filmmaker and ‘Etilaat Roz’ staff member Abbas Rezaie relentlessly films and questions his passionate colleagues on the editorial team in the days leading up to, during, and after the takeover. What begins as shock at a surreal situation, gradually shifts to realization of an inescapable reality at their doorstep. Tensions rise as his colleagues must balance their families’ safety with their dedication to provide honest reporting, while the Taliban set their targets on the free press. This dramatic account of a group of courageous journalists in their struggle for truth, freedom, and life is poignantly captured by Rezaie’s camera, fully immersing the viewer in this rapidly changing environment. 

In-Person Event:  New York: Film at Lincoln Center's Elinor Bunin Munroe Film Center; Thursday, June 1, 6:30-8:30 EDT
Discussion to follow with Fatima Faizi, freelance journalist and special guests. Moderated by John Sifton, Advocacy Director, Asia Division, Human Rights Watch.

Digital Film Screening: Monday, June 5 - Sunday, June 11
Streaming online across the US only.

Purchase tickets here.