Hypnosis Film Explores War Trauma Displacement

Filmmaker Er Gorbach's 12-minute film 'Rotation' delves into the psychological impact of war on Ukrainian soldiers. The movie centers on a young woman undergoing therapeutic hypnosis to cope with her transition from civilian life to military service.

Er Gorbach explained her film was inspired by the concept of displacement, specifically how individuals adapt to new realities. She noted that some soldiers struggle with loss and grief, leading to hypnosis as a means to forgive themselves for perceived failures.

Meanwhile, Sadat's 14-minute film, 'Super Afghan Gym,' is set in a Kabul gym where women gather secretly during a designated hour. These gatherings provide a space for them to discuss body norms and daily life.

Sadat's own experiences of displacement, marked by a childhood in Iran facing racism and later navigating identity in Afghanistan and Germany, deeply inform her work. She views filmmaking as a therapeutic process for self-discovery and expression.

'Super Afghan Gym' tackles themes of identity and belonging, particularly concerning women's relationship with their bodies and societal beauty standards. The film has sparked varied reactions, with some Afghan men disputing the portrayal while many women shared similar experiences of secret gym attendance.

Both directors utilized physical film stock for their productions, with 'Rotation' using Ukrainian Svema film found in a shelter, adding a layer of historical and personal significance to their cinematic journeys.