Afghan People Smugglers Documented in Venice Critics’ Week Premiere “Waking Hours”

A new documentary offers a rare look inside a migrant smuggling operation. “Waking Hours” premieres at Venice Critics’ Week on September 4th. The film follows an Afghan clan working along the Serbia-Hungary border.

It captures their nocturnal world of illegal border crossings. The filmmakers use a vérité style to immerse the audience. This approach provides an insider perspective rarely seen by the public.

Inside the Nocturnal World of Border Crossings

The documentary was shot in the forests between Serbia and Hungary. This area is a major transit point for those seeking entry into the European Union. A sharp metal wall there marks the literal edge of Europe.

According to the filmmakers, the forest is a central character. It is a place of disorientation and fragile refuge. Shadowy figures gather around fires as distant gunshots echo.

The production company Volos Films Italia backs the project. They first encountered it at the Bellaria Film Festival. They were impressed by the directors’ daring formal research and visual approach.

A Universal Story of the Human Condition

The directors call the film a “poetic counter-investigation.” It reveals its subject without fully showing every detail. This method creates space for listening and reflection.

The goal is to highlight something universal about the human condition. It moves beyond the mere function of the people smugglers. The film encourages viewers to question stereotypes about migration.

Sales agent Luminalia is handling the film’s distribution. Their representative stated the film confronts notions of “us” and “them.” It offers a perspective on migration that hasn’t been seen before.

The film provides a stark, intimate portrait of life on the edge of Europe. “Waking Hours” promises to be a significant and challenging debut. Its premiere at Venice Critics’ Week will undoubtedly generate important global discussion on migration.

Dropping this nugget your way-

What is the Venice Critics’ Week?

It is an independent, parallel section of the Venice Film Festival. It focuses on debut films from emerging directors, providing a vital platform for new talent.

Who directed “Waking Hours”?

Federico Cammarata and Filippo Foscarini directed the documentary. This project marks their debut feature film.

What makes this documentary unique?

It offers an insider’s view of migrant smuggling from the smugglers’ perspective. The film uses a unique blend of cinema vérité and poetic imagery to tell its story.

Where was the documentary filmed?

Filming took place in the border forests between Serbia and Hungary. This area is a key transit route for migrants attempting to enter the European Union.

When does the film premiere?

The world premiere is scheduled for Thursday, September 4th. The screening will occur during the Venice Critics’ Week program.