The Buddhas of Bamyan, which stood for 1,500 years, were destroyed by the Taliban in March 2001 under orders attributed to Osama bin Laden.
Synopsis
The Buddhas of Bamyan, which stood for 1,500 years, were destroyed by the Taliban in March 2001 under orders attributed to Osama bin Laden.
People
View all →
Synopsis
In March 2001, the Taliban ordered the destruction of the Buddhas of Bamyan in Afghanistan. These monumental statues, carved into the cliffs over 1,500 years ago, were demolished despite local opposition and international outcry. Christian Frei's documentary, *The Giant Buddhas*, features interviews with Afghans who recount the events leading to the demolition. The film includes archival footage and testimonies about the cultural loss felt after the statues were blown up, a decision reportedly influenced by Osama bin Laden.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- See local Afghans' views on the Buddhas' destruction.
- Find out about Osama bin Laden's role in the event.
- Meet Christian Frei, the director behind the film.
Did You Know
- The Buddhas of Bamyan were destroyed in March 2001.
- Christian Frei directed The Giant Buddhas, which premiered in August 2005.
- The film was nominated for a Grand Jury Prize at Sundance Film Festival 2006.
- The documentary received the Silver Dove award at DOK Leipzig 2005.
Perfect For
Frequently Asked Questions
Who directed The Giant Buddhas?
The Giant Buddhas was directed by Swiss filmmaker Christian Frei.
When was The Giant Buddhas released?
The Giant Buddhas premiered in August 2005 and was released in March 2006.
What awards did The Giant Buddhas receive?
The Giant Buddhas won the Silver Dove at DOK Leipzig 2005 and the first prize ex aequo at Dokufest Prizren 2006.
Awards & Festivals
What are people saying?
Play More Like This
Where else to watch
Browse more like this
Related Films
Is this your film?
If you made this film or hold the rights to it, we'd like to talk. We can license it and pay you a share of what it earns.
Comments