Elham Ehsas, an Afghan filmmaker and actor, is set to premiere his short film Forgotten Spaceman at the 79th edition of the Locarno Film Festival. The film tells the story of Abdul Ahad Momand, Afghanistan's first cosmonaut, who traveled into space in 1988, making Pashto the fourth language ever spoken in space. Ehsas, who wrote, directed, and edited the film, was inspired by his own family history and the country's past, aiming to change the narrative surrounding Afghanistan, which has been shaped by conflict, exile, and diaspora. The film blends documentary and essay elements, uncovering a surprising link between Afghanistan's space history and Ehsas' family's past.
The journey behind Forgotten Spaceman began with Ehsas' initial research for a fiction film about space, leading him to discover Momand's story. He was intrigued by the idea of an Afghan cosmonaut and the potential impact on his country's image. Ehsas then delved into Momand's life, learning about his refugee status and eventual move to Europe. A pivotal moment came when Ehsas' father shared a photo of Momand, which opened up new avenues for the film's narrative.
The film explores the universal themes of migration, refugees, and the loss of home, connecting Momand's story to Ehsas' own family history. Ehsas' personal connection to the subject matter and his desire to challenge the Western portrayal of Afghanistan as solely defined by conflict and violence are central to the film's message. The film also features Afghan music, with Ehsas drawing inspiration from old folk songs and the music his parents listened to during his childhood.
Forgotten Spaceman has gained attention from notable collaborators, including Ken Loach's Sixteen Films, and is set to premiere at the Locarno Film Festival, followed by a screening at the Toronto Film Festival. Ehsas expresses curiosity about the audience's reactions and the potential for expanding the film into a feature-length project. The film's success lies in its ability to blend personal narratives with broader themes, shedding light on Afghanistan's rich history and the resilience of its people.
