Abdul Hamid Mandgar

Colorless (2020)
Abdul Hamid Mandgar
Selected by Center for Contemporary Arts Afghanistan in Exile e.V. (CCAA in eXiLe)

The film tells the story of a young child in Afghanistan who has a deep passion for dancing, turning this passion into a dream. However, this dream faces opposition from his older brother, who represents traditional beliefs and societal norms. The central drama of the film revolves around the struggle between individual desires and social constraints.

In a society where dancing – especially for girls – is restricted by cultural and social limitations, the child’s love for dance symbolizes freedom of expression and the search for personal identity. The older brother, as a representative of tradition and conservative family structures, tries to discourage him from pursuing his passion. This conflict is not only a family issue but also reflects deeper social layers.

With its minimalist visual style and subtle narrative, the film depicts a suffocating atmosphere where individual freedoms are curtailed by unwritten societal rules. By focusing on a child, the film highlights how even the smallest and most innocent dreams are affected by deeply rooted traditions and beliefs. This cinematic work offers a poetic and critical perspective on a society where personal dreams are easily suppressed, yet the hope for change remains alive in the eyes of a child.