Joy of Madness

The first feature-length film from 14-year-old Hana Makhmalbaf, shot in war-scarred Kabul, Joy Of Madness began life as a behind-the-scenes feature on the making of her sister Samira's At Five in the Afternoon (Cannes 2003). Shot on digital video and transferred to 35mm film, Joy Of Madness explores the fears of a society oppressed from within and without, and the struggles of individuals within that embattled society. Hana Makhmalbaf's film provides an intimate portrait of a remarkable film maker triumphing over great adversity, as well as an uncompromising, provocative and sometimes blackly funny insight into the fears, hopes and courage of the women of Afghanistan. (Wild Bunch Distribution)