Watandar, My Countryman

JOLYON HOFF | AUSTRALIA | 2023 | 68'

“The Afghan cameleer descendants featured in WATANDAR, MY COUNTRYMAN, are indigenous, colonial and immigrants at the same time. When Muzafar decided to photograph them, we started filming. His experience as a former Afghan-Hazara refugee, along with his wisdom and charisma, presented a rare opportunity to re-examine Australia’s colonial history.”

Jolyon Hoff, Director

WATANDAR, MY COUNTRYMAN touches on some of Australia and the world’s biggest geopolitical stories, including the relationship between colonial, ancient and immigrant Australians; our treatment of refugees; the division between the world’s dominant religions; the success or lack of success of the international forces in Afghanistan; and the power of individuals to create change.

“I loved it! I had tears in my eyes from probably the first 30 seconds. Muzafar is the most grateful, positive person I’ve ever met.”

Andrea Michaels MP, Arts Minister of SA

“A new view of Australia’s multicultural society, its rich history and a genuine perspective on the situation in Afghanistan and its humanitarian catastrophe.”

Australian Ambassador of Afghanistan, Wahidullah Wassi

“A journey through sadness, hope and sparkling laughter. What a beautiful film!”

Director Creative Industries, Dept Industry, Innovation & Science - South Australia

Credits

Director: Jolyon Hoff
Producers: Jolyon Hoff, Muzafar Ali, Hamish Gibbs Ludbrook
Language: English & Farsi (English subtitles)