Afghan astronaut's story hits Toronto Film Fest

The documentary "Forgotten Spaceman" is poised for its North American debut at the Toronto Film Festival next month. The film, which earned an award at Locarno's Junior Jury Awards, chronicles the extraordinary story of Abdul Ahad Momand, Afghanistan's sole astronaut. Momand journeyed to the Mir space station in 1988, a period of turmoil for his homeland, offering a rare moment of national pride. He notably became the first person to speak Pashto in orbit.

Directed by Elham Ehsas, the documentary uncovers the filmmaker's personal connection to Momand's narrative. It intricately weaves themes of home, identity, exile, and belonging. Ahead of its Toronto premiere, Khan & Kumar Media and Prism Entertainment have been announced as new executive producers. The film also boasts executive production from Jack Thomas O'Brien and Catherine Tschaepe, with Lorraine Bhattachary producing.