2022 Fearless Award - Doc Edge Festival

Afghan Star—Afghanistan's answer to American Idol—is a raging success, capturing the hearts of millions of viewers. And for 13 straight seasons, only men have won it. Set amidst peace negotiations between the United States and the Taliban, this powerful doc follows Afghan Star contestants Zahra and Sadiqa as they compete in the final episodes of the 14th season. With the help of their mentor, controversial pop star and activist Aryana Sayeed, they’re determined to win the show and become national singing sensations—but their lives are turned upside down when the Taliban return to power, reversing 20 years of progress for women’s rights in the blink of an eye. And Still I Sing is a captivating portrait of three women fighting for a better future and a chilling reminder of the fragility of human rights under totalitarianism.

Live performance by acclaimed singer Aryana Sayeed at the Friday, October 21, 6:00 p.m. screening, moderated by Hot Docs programmer Mariam Zaidi.

In Dari with English subtitles.

Tickets: $15 (Members from $10)