After the Curtain

in 2016 Competition

Content is Woman

Documentary | United States | 70 min
  • Emelie Mahdavian
  • Emelie Mahdavian Meysam Javadi Roozbeh Ghasemi
  • Emelie Mahdavian Lola Ulugova

Four female dancers battle shifting cultural norms in the Post-Soviet, predominantly Muslim nation of Tajikistan. This intimate portrait is seen through the performers’ eyes as they weigh their love of art against economic hardship, loneliness, and social reproach. The film also celebrates the rich dance and music culture of the Central Asian country largely unknown in the West.