Documentary - 'Skateistan: To Live and Skate in Kabul'

'Skateistan: To Live and Skate in Kabul' is a 10 minute documentary on a group of skateboarders in Afghanistan, Kabul. This is a beautifully shot documentary that highlights the conflicts and problems these children and teenagers face whilst living there. The piece combines shots that feature a sense of community and well-being, contrasted with a war-town city that has been devastatingly affecting the local people.

There is a sense of community in this city despite the fighting that goes on, it is highlighted through many shots of the skating group learning and performing together. From time to time, the piece refers back to the problems that are apparent in the region, from famine, to a lack of money and more. The cinematography is striking, as it shows the audience the conditions some of these people are living in. From the sunset in the background to the sweeping dust on the roads, the shots portray a mood that is both moving and inspiring.

A narrator nor' interviewer is used in the piece, instead the piece focuses entirely upon the people involved in the film, focusing on them and their personal lives, furthermore offering us a true insight to what's happening in their lives. This is the technique we wished to achieve for our documentary.


The documentary follows one young teenager and his bond with the skateboard and how he depends on it to survive. However skateboarding in the region is frowned upon heavily by some of the people there. We sympathies with the teenager throughout but are heart-warmed when we are shown scenes of happiness and community. Shots of the local 'militia' or Taliban are shown but are never truly placed into a light of hatred.

Instead they are in the background whilst we are more focused on how the skateboarding group provides the children with a chance to socialise, learn and have fun.