French Producers on Making ‘Kabul,’ a Thriller on Talibans’ Takeover
The gripping geopolitical drama “Kabul” takes viewers on a journey through the tumultuous events in Afghanistan following the Taliban’s rise to power in 2021. The series, premiering at Series Mania in Lille, was born out of producer Fabienne Servan-Schreiber’s firsthand experience in the chaotic evacuation efforts from Kabul.
While on vacation in Greece with her son and co-producer Matthias Weber, Servan-Schreiber became deeply involved in rescue efforts for Afghan artists and doctors stranded in Kabul. What started as a mission to raise funds for plane tickets quickly escalated into a complex operation involving multiple countries and authorities.
Weber, inspired by his mother’s unwavering dedication, proposed the idea of creating a series to chronicle the events in Kabul. The project quickly gained momentum with the addition of renowned screenwriter Olivier Demangel and a talented creative team.
“Kabul” boasts an international cast and was shot in English to capture the global scope of the story. The series delves into the human impact of the crisis, focusing on an Afghan family’s struggle to escape amidst the chaos. Female directors Kasia Adamik and Olga Chajdas were brought on board to provide a unique perspective on the violence and hardships faced by women in Afghanistan.
The production of “Kabul” was a collaborative effort involving multiple partners and co-producers from various European countries. The series was filmed in Greece, chosen for its resemblance to Afghan landscapes and the availability of diverse filming locations.
The creators of “Kabul” aimed to authentically recreate the events from a European perspective, emphasizing the importance of telling the story through a lens of compassion and understanding. The series not only sheds light on the harrowing events in Kabul but also explores the resilience and hope of those affected by the crisis.
“Kabul” is a powerful narrative that brings to life a recent historical event that continues to resonate on a global scale. Through its character-driven storytelling and emotional depth, the series offers a poignant reflection on the impact of war and conflict on individuals and communities.
As “Kabul” makes its debut, it stands as a testament to the strength and determination of those who faced the challenges of the Afghan crisis head-on. The series serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity and the power of storytelling to capture the essence of a moment in history.
