Sibiu:Azerbaijani director Fariz Ahmadov’s documentary film, “Silent Steps,” which delves into the challenging lives of women deminers in Garabagh, was showcased at the Astra Film Festival in Sibiu, Romania. The screening was part of the festival’s international program, highlighting significant global narratives.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the documentary, a collaboration between Azerbaijani and Polish filmmakers, is set for a 2026 release. It was featured on the fourth day of the festival at Astra Film Cinema. The film offers an intimate look at the lives of women working in the hazardous, mine-laden regions of Garabagh, capturing both the perilous nature of their work and their personal lives.
Mihnea Golea, a digital creator at Europa FM, highlighted in an article that “Silent Steps” introduces audiences to the relatively unknown world of female deminers in Garabagh. The documentary not only portrays the dangers they face but also underscores their ability to maintain femininity and uphold family values amidst the constant threat of danger.
The Astra Film Festival, recognized as one of Romania’s longest-running documentary festivals, features over 70 documentary films and 200 film-related events this year. It serves as a platform for directors from around the world to present their works and engage in discussions on pressing social and cultural issues.