The Question: The producers of the movie "The Kite Runner" had to evacuate three boy actors from Afghanistan because they were involved in a scene portraying homosexual rape. Who's at fault here: the movie producers who exposed the boys to danger, or the Afghan culture that threatens them?
It is a tough question: There is a fine line between respect of local traditions and norms, and
submission to extortion of extremist forces. However, in most cases resentment of certain Western
attitudes may reflect more resentment of Western policies - in the case of Afghanistan what many see as
Western occupation - than certain behaviors. It is imperative that Westerners show sensitivity in
how they carry themselves in conservative societies. (That same rule also applies to Arabs or any foreigners
visiting Western societies.) Even locals who pursue a more liberal lifestyle must tread cautiously in their milieu. Even for people like me, it is a constant struggle between my belief in a more open social life and my own more conservative ambiance. Change is a long process and shocking people's sensibilities could backfire.
It is also important to realize that Western lifestyle is not necessarily synonymous with civilized behavior. It is a complex issue since some Westerners carry an inherent condescending attitude reflecting conscious and subconscious colonialist beliefs. The controversy regarding filming of the rape scene, using local boy Afghan actors is a very particular example, though.
I am surprised that it created a controversy – unless the scene was widely publicized and witnessed by many resentful Afghans. As far I know, movies are not accessible to the majority of the population in Afghanistan. Afghan friends of mine who live in Kabul were themselves surprised about the furor simply because most people were not even aware of the filming or the movie. I understand though that some or many Afghans could view the scene itself--as a negative portrayal of their society.
I have not seen the movie but I have read the book. Although I liked the book, I found the rape episode too much. The book sharply portrays the inner workings of lowly opportunists and how they change their skin easily and shamelessly. Former leftists and liberals become suddenly religious and zealous than the Taliban themselves to serve and be served by power. The book is also an amazing message about understanding human frailty and forgiveness. But my views about the book are not as relevant here. I am sure that the families of the kid actors have received threats. The controversy may be totally exaggerated but it is a country in turmoil--and is torn between extreme repressive Western and fundamentalist forces. As much as I liked the book itself, I still believe that the scene was included for the sole purpose of further demonizing the Taliban - as if that is even necessary.
Please e-mail PostGlobal if you'd like to receive an email notification when PostGlobal sends out a new question.
