"Paikar": A Riveting Documentary Debut by Afghan-Dutch Filmmaker Dawood Hilmandi

Taskovski Films has secured the rights to an exciting new documentary feature titled “Paikar”. This film marks the debut of Afghan-Dutch filmmaker Dawood Hilmandi, and is set to make its world premiere in the Luminous section at IDFA. Hilmandi's journey began under the influence of his father, Baba - a former mujahideen combatant who subsequently became an imam, author and poet. Despite the majority of their communication being dominated by authority and silence, it was clear that behind Baba's rigid disposition resided a reflective and gentle soul.

The poignant narrative of “Paikar” takes off when events in life lead Hilmandi back to his father, and initiates a mission to bridge their emotional distance. This journey across Afghanistan, Iran, and Iraq heavily symbolizes the dynastic passage through locations marked by religion, hostilities, solitude, and homecoming.

The production credits for the film go to Frank Hoeve and Katja Draaijer of Amsterdam's Baldr Film while distribution in the Netherlands is managed by Cinema Delicatessen.

Commenting on the acquisition, Irena Taskovski, the Head of Acquisitions at Taskovski Films, stated that “Paikar” illustrates the unseen scars bore by individuals who reside in conflict-inflicted shadows. While the basis of the narrative is Afghanistan, the messages transcend geographical boundaries to resonate with families worldwide fragmented by warfare, silence, or ideological differences. It is a cinematic masterpiece of our time, emphasizing that humanity's magnitude consistently surmounts historical scenarios.

Echoing Irena's thoughts, Hoeve shared that "Paikar" symbolizes a deeply personal human story. Taskovski's unwavering commitment to meaningful cinema ensures this film reaches an audience that truly appreciates them.

Earlier, Hilmandi's video essay “Me Montage” premiered at the International Short Film Festival Oberhausen and won him the top prize for his pitch for “Badeszenen” at the Locarno Film Festival in 2017 in the Open Doors program.