Park City, UT – The Sundance Film Festival was rocked to its core on Friday when the Taliban’s latest film, “Captive Hearts,” premiered to a packed theatre of film critics, industry professionals, and the hostages they had taken as extras in the film.
The film, which tells the story of a group of Western aid workers kidnapped by the Taliban and held for ransom, received rave reviews from critics for its gripping storyline, top-notch acting, and stunning cinematography. “It’s not often that you see a film that can make you laugh, cry, and pray for your own release all at the same time,” said film critic Roger Ebert, who gave the film four stars.
But it wasn’t just the critics who were impressed. Industry insiders were quick to praise the film’s technical achievements, with one executive from Sony Pictures calling it “the best hostage film since ‘Die Hard’.”
The film’s director and star, Taliban leader Mullah Omar, was on hand for the premiere and was greeted with a standing ovation. “I’m just glad that people are finally recognizing the Taliban’s talents in the film industry,” he said in a post-screening Q&A. “I always knew we had it in us.“
Despite the film’s success at Sundance, it’s unclear if “Captive Hearts” will ever see a wide release. The Taliban has yet to secure distribution deals with any major studios, and the hostages used in the film have yet to be released. But with such strong buzz surrounding the film, it’s only a matter of time before Hollywood calls.
In the meantime, the hostages are still held captive, and the world is waiting for their safe release.
