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This film scratches beneath the surface of the headlines to reveal more from Afghanistan of the people’s beliefs and aspirations.

Part I: INTRODUCTION & THE BIG BUILD introduces young Afghans, male and female, from different backgrounds – a young entrepreneur in Kabul, a radio presenter in the northern provinces, a new recruit to the Afghan National Army. All feel deeply for their country and for the problems and opportunities that lie ahead. It tells of the huge effort currently underway to build the Afghan National Army: the training, equipping and mentoring – a crucial, if little-reported function of any outside military engagement, anywhere.

Part II: FROM WORDS TO ACTION shows how it is for the ANA and NATO on the battlefield and explains the nature of the enemy they are up against. It does this from the viewpoint of Afghan soldiers themselves, many of whom have different takes on the problems… and on the solutions.

Part III: INNOCENT CASUALTIES, PATH TO PEACE & SIGNS OF SUCCESS examines what happens when innocent civilians get caught in the firing line, and how such incidents are dealt with. Resentments boil over, accusations are leveled. What’s the fuller picture, from all viewpoints? And what are the next steps?

Part IV: FEARS FOR THE FUTURE, ENOUGH TO FEED THE FAMILY & GIVE ME THE POWER takes a look at the economic questions at stake in Afghanistan, in particular at the development projects trying to bring new opportunities to improve daily life. It also takes a walk through Kabul, which – more than any other Afghan city – has changed almost beyond recognition over the past decade. And it leaves the last word to the featured characters, each with their singular view on what the future might hold.

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