AFGHAN MUSCLES
The young men of Afghanistan have discovered the art of bodybuilding. In a country ravished by war, they still dream of muscle, honour and fame. Absolute control of the body in a world of chaos.
Shiny muscular bodies, humans without limbs, black limousine 4-wheelers, horse-drawn carriers, fortified palaces and ragged tents. Blaring sounds from the minarets mixed with loud Indian techno, large 3×4 posters of naked black bodybuilders in every street and skinny homeless kids begging down below. Burka covered women with mobiles walking through neighbourhoods in rubbles.
Welcome to Afghanistan post 9/11.
Afghan Muscles is about this country – and about bodybuilding. The sport has become the most popular in Kabul, and thousands of men strive for muscles and beauty. But it is not just about looks.
A championship brings fame, social recognition, and honour to the name of your father and ancestors.
Hamid Shirzai wants to be a national champion like his brother and uncle. They were part of a legendary team of bodybuilders that won medals at the Asian Championships in the early 90’s.
Shortly after they all died in a plane crash.
Hamid is the only one still in the game and he wants to be the master of his own future no matter what.
- Release year:
- September 2006
- Director:
- Andreas Dalsgaard
- Producer:
- Jesper Morthorst & Mikael Haslund
- Co production:
- SBS Australia & TV2/DANMARK
- Running length:
- 58 minutes
- Production company:
- Nimbus Film
- Prizes:
- Grand Jury Prize for Best Documentary at AFI Fest, Los Angeles International Film Festival
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