Despite persistent violence and death threats, Afghan women competed alongside men from all walks of life in Afghan Star, a hugely popular Afghani reality TV show akin to American Idol. Havana Marking's absorbing documentary focuses on four such contestants during the program's home stretch in 2005. By adding a little dance, a little makeup, and a little zazz to their singing, the contestants better their chances of wooing their voting viewership. But this "bare" public display also makes them targets for those tethered to Afghanistan's traditional past. "...shows how the fizzy American Idol concept becomes something profound and unique when set in war-ridden Afghanistan" (L.A. Times). Winner of an Audience Award and Directing Award at Sundance. In Pashtu, Dari, and English with English subtitles.

Havana Marking---Great Britian---2009---87 mins.

• Zeitgeist
• Release date: 03/30/2010
• Letterboxed