Kabul Directors Link Anne Frank to Taliban Era in New Documentary
Shakiba Adil and Elina Hirvonen discuss how a classic diary shaped their film about life under the Taliban regime in Afghanistan.
By Layla Richardson ·
Two directors in New York connected a 20th century diary to the modern Taliban regime, framing their new film as a bridge across decades and continents. The discussion took place at the "Doc Dreams" event held on Nov. 9 in New York. Shakiba Adil and Elina Hirvonen, co-directors of "The Secret Reading Club of Kabul," detailed how a specific book inspired the project.
Adil moved to Finland several years ago, where a friend gave her a copy of "The Diary of Anne Frank." She described reading the text while recalling her own past in Afghanistan. "When I was in Afghanistan, when the Taliban took over, I was told that I cannot go to school," Adil said. She noted that she often wondered if the world knew what was happening to young women in the country.
The director said she felt a shared experience with Anne Frank upon reading the diary. "I realized that in the other side of the world, a young girl has experienced exactly similar thing, which is like everything is taken away and how your world becomes smaller and smaller," Adil stated. She explained that the book made her feel less alone in her recollection of the regime's restrictions.
The conversation occurred during a gathering that featured top documentarians. The event also included Alex Gibney, who helmed and produced the documentary "Musk." That film is described as a controversial deep dive into Elon Musk. The "Doc Dreams" showcase served as a platform for these filmmakers to discuss their work and inspirations.
The event was highlighted on the latest episode of the "Strictly Business" podcast. Host Cynthia Littleton discussed the role of business managers in the entertainment industry alongside the documentary segments. Littleton noted that business managers act as "Swiss army knives" for their clients. She explained that these professionals handle complex financial flows, including lumpy compensation and long-term royalty payments.
Littleton pointed out that business managers must coordinate with a wide range of professionals. This group includes investors, family offices, tax advisers, lawyers, agents, doctors, and coaches. The podcast segment also covered the upcoming Business Managers Elite feature section. That publication is scheduled for Nov. 11 in print and online.
Arnie Herrmann, a veteran at Citrin Cooperman, was named the top honoree for the year. In a profile set to publish on Nov. 11, Herrmann discussed his role in guiding clients through real estate transactions. He described property purchases as one of the most emotional decisions individuals make. His work involves ensuring clients have all the necessary facts, even when they are willing to overpay for a property.
