Common Sense Media Review
By Sabrina McFarland
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Afghan couple share dreams and despair in poignant docu.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Three Songs for Benazir
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In THREE SONGS FOR BENAZIR, Afghan brick maker Shaista Khan wants to enlist in his country's army. He aspires to have a better job and provide more for his wife Benazir and their growing family. With only a third-grade education and a desire to return to school, Shaista also wishes to be the first from his tribe to join the military. He receives encouragement, but also confronts resistance from family and community members about his choices.
Is It Any Good?
Husband and wife filmmakers Elizabeth and Gulistan Mirzaei turn their insightful lens on another married couple, two Afghan teens living through a war. "I will join the army, Benazir," says Shaista to his wife in Three Songs for Benazir. "You will be proud when I visit you. I will have a real job and be happy." Shaista also reveals to an army recruiter that he wants to return to school one day to finish his education. Learning about the memorable story of Shaista and Benazir offers viewers valuable lessons about survival in the face of adversity.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the teamwork of Benazir and Shaista in Three Songs for Benazir. How do they also demonstrate courage and perseverance? Why are these important character strengths?
How does Shaista express gratitude for Benazir? How does she reciprocate his appreciation?
What possible risks may Shaista face by joining the military? Why does he encounter both hesitation and support from others for his decision?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : January 24, 2022
- Cast : Shaista Khan , Benazir , Shadi Khan
- Directors : Elizabeth Mirzaei , Gulistan Mirzaei
- Studio : Netflix
- Genre : Documentary
- Character Strengths : Courage , Gratitude , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 22 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : February 8, 2022
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