The Giant Buddhas

Six months before the Twin Towers attacks in New York, 2001, two huge Buddha statues were blown up in the remote area of Bamiyantal in Afghanistan. This dramatic event surrounding the ancient stone colossi – unique proof of a high culture that bloomed until the 13th century along the Silk Road – is the starting point for a cinematic essay on fanaticism, terror and tolerance, ignorance and identity. Oscar nominated director Christian Frei’s thought-provoking film journeys along a perimeter that both divides and unites people and cultures. (official distributor synopsis)