Love Crimes of Kabul (HBO)

About Love Crimes of Kabul (HBO)

"Love Crimes of Kabul" is a compelling 2011 HBO documentary by Tanaz Eshaghian. The film is an intimate portrayal of the Afghani society where moral crimes, including pre-marital sex and adultery, are taken very seriously. It provides a glimpse into the world of women, and some men, in Afghanistan who are accused of these moral crimes, and imprisoned for the same. The film explores the lives of these prisoners, the challenges they face and the societal norms they are up against.

Making / Production

Produced by HBO, the film was directed by Iranian-American filmmaker Tanaz Eshaghian. It presents a raw and real picture of life inside Badam Bagh women's prison in Afghanistan, where many of its occupants are imprisoned for 'moral crimes'. The documentary was shot over a four month period, and the director was given unprecedented access to the prison facility and the trials.

Actors

• Tanaz Eshaghian: As the documentary filmmaker, Tanaz actively steers the narrative, posing hard-hitting questions and capturing the stark realities of life in Afghanistan.
• Inmates of Badam Bagh: These are real-life inmates who share their experiences, rather than actors playing roles. Their compelling stories form the heart of the documentary, creating a poignant picture of the emotional and societal barriers they face.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• "Love Crimes of Kabul" was officially selected for the 2011 Sundance Film Festival.
• A majority of the women in Badam Bagh prison are jailed for 'moral crimes' such as pre-marital sex and adultery, often seen as a violation of the family honor.
• The film brings attention to the fact that many women are often forced into marriage or subjected to abuse.

Quotes

• "In Afghanistan, running away is a criminal act only for women."
• "In the West, one says, 'I think, therefore I am.' Here we say, 'I am seen, therefore I exist.'"

Music, Soundtrack

As a stark documentary about real-life issues faced by women in Afghanistan, "Love Crimes of Kabul" does not feature typical film music or a soundtrack. Instead, it relies on the true stories and authentic voices of its subjects to create an enveloping narrative.