Two Funerals

Filmmaker Ariana Delawari travels to Afghanistan to attend the funerals of her grandmother and a young friend, providing an intimate look at grief, family, and resilience in a country often defined by conflict. Through personal reflections and observations of cultural rituals, the documentary explores themes of loss, memory, and the enduring spirit of the Afghan people. It highlights the quiet strength and everyday lives of individuals navigating profound sorrow amidst challenging circumstances.

Two Funerals received positive reviews from critics, who praised its intimate and personal approach to exploring grief and cultural traditions in Afghanistan. Reviewers commended Delawari's sensitive direction and ability to capture the complexities of human emotion within a specific cultural context. The film was noted for its unique perspective, offering a more nuanced and humanizing portrayal of Afghanistan beyond typical news narratives.

• Praised for its deeply personal and poignant exploration of grief and cultural traditions.

• Lauded for its sensitive direction and intimate portrayal of Afghan life and resilience.

• Appreciated for offering a nuanced and humanizing perspective on a country often seen through conflict.

Google audience: Viewers found the documentary to be a moving and profound examination of loss, family, and the human spirit in Afghanistan. Many highlighted its authenticity and emotional resonance, appreciating the filmmaker's brave and personal journey. The film's ability to connect universal themes of grief with specific cultural practices was frequently mentioned as a strength.

Award for Best Documentary Feature at the Woodstock Film Festival (2019).

The film's director, Ariana Delawari, was born in Kabul and her family fled Afghanistan during the Soviet invasion, adding a deeply personal layer to her return and filmmaking in the country.