Cursed by Happiness

In a small Afghan village, a young boy named Rahman dreams of owning a bicycle, a symbol of freedom and escape from his difficult life. He works tirelessly to save money, facing numerous obstacles including poverty, family obligations, and the harsh realities of his environment. His journey to acquire the bicycle becomes intertwined with the lives of his family and the community around him, highlighting themes of hope, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds.

Cursed by Happiness received critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of Afghan village life and its poignant storytelling. Critics praised director Shahrbanoo Sadat's sensitive direction and the natural performances of the non-professional actors. The film was lauded for its quiet power and its ability to evoke empathy for its characters' struggles and aspirations.

• Praised for its authentic and empathetic depiction of Afghan life.

• Commended for its strong direction and compelling narrative about hope and resilience.

• Noted for its naturalistic performances and visually striking portrayal of the landscape.

Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's realistic portrayal of daily life and the challenges faced by the protagonist. Many found the story touching and inspiring, highlighting the child's determination. Some viewers noted the slow pacing but overall found it to be a meaningful and moving experience.

Selected for the Cannes Film Festival's Directors' Fortnight section, and received the Europa Cinemas Label Award.

Director Shahrbanoo Sadat drew inspiration for the film from her own childhood experiences and observations growing up in Afghanistan.