Three Songs for Benazir
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Three Songs for Benazir
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Three Songs for Benazir is an Afghan-language short documentary with subtitles about a married teen couple in a Kabul displacement camp. Images includes guns, as well as mentions of people being killed by the Taliban and suicide attacks. There's smoking and references to hashish, harvesting of opium and poppy seeds, and images of a drug treatment center and addicts in recovery. Talk of disowning a parent, discussion about a pregnancy, and someone swearing to God. Positive messages include the desire to pursue dreams, the ability to overcome adversity, and being inspired to seek a better family life.
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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
- Topics: Great Boy Role Models, Great Girl Role Models
- Character Strengths: Courage, Gratitude, Perseverance, Teamwork
- Run time: 22 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: February 28, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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