The chaos surrounding the fall of Kabul in August 2021 is the focus of a new ambitious series titled Kaboul, which premieres on France 2 on March 31, 2025. This six-episode series, co-produced by Cinétévé and 24 25 Films (Mediawan), along with a dozen European channels including France TV, aims to recount the harrowing events of that historic day when the Taliban seized power.
As the U.S. military withdrew from Afghanistan, the world watched in disbelief as thousands of Afghans flocked to the airport, desperate to escape the impending rule of the Taliban. The series not only captures the dramatic moments of the evacuation but also delves into the personal stories of those affected by the turmoil. This narrative is built around the Nazany family, whose members are forced to leave their homeland amid the chaos and threats from the Islamic State.
Olivier Demangel and Thomas Finkielkraut, the creators and screenwriters of Kaboul, have crafted a story that resonates with the complexities of the situation. They have chosen to portray a family that embodies the struggles faced by many during the Taliban's return to power. "We imagined a family that could represent all those who would suffer the most from the return of the Taliban: an intellectual, a prosecutor who condemned some of them, a soldier, and a female doctor," Demangel explained.
The series is not just a retelling of the events; it intertwines multiple international narratives, including those of French officers, Italian diplomats, German soldiers, and American intelligence agents, all working to manage the chaotic evacuation of civilians. This approach provides a multifaceted view of the crisis, making it a gripping thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
With a solid cast featuring Jonathan Zaccaï as Gilles, the head of security at the French embassy, and Thibault Evrard as Erwan, who protects the ambassador, the performances are described as sensitive and impactful. Zaccaï's character is inspired by the real-life figure Mohamed Bida, who played a crucial role in the evacuation efforts. "I think my role in the series Le Bureau des légendes, which had international audiences, was not unrelated to this project," Zaccaï shared. "Gilles is someone ordinary doing extraordinary things. He is in control, and that was important to convey in my performance."
The series is set against the backdrop of a humanitarian crisis that continues to unfold in Afghanistan, particularly for women who have faced increasing oppression since the Taliban's return. The creators have dedicated the series to Afghan women, emphasizing the need to keep their struggles in the public eye. Demangel stated, "We forget these Afghans, especially the women. If this program can bring back to the forefront the drama that is happening there, we would be proud of that." This poignant message is echoed throughout the series, which avoids sensationalism while striving to portray the events authentically.
Moreover, the series is notable for its international production, filmed in Greece to recreate Kabul's environment. It features a diverse cast, including actors from various countries, enhancing its global appeal. The decision to have Western characters speak English while Afghan characters communicate in their native language adds an authentic layer to the storytelling.
As the series premieres, it also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Afghans, with the narrative paralleling contemporary issues, such as the threat of American troop withdrawal from Ukraine. This connection serves as a reminder of the broader implications of geopolitical decisions and their human costs.
For those interested in delving deeper into the story, an adaptation of Kaboul into a book by François Forestier will be available for purchase on April 3, 2025. This book aims to further explore the themes presented in the series and provide additional context to the real-life events that inspired it.
In conclusion, Kaboul promises to be an engaging and thought-provoking series that not only recounts a pivotal moment in history but also sheds light on the human experiences intertwined with it. As viewers tune in on March 31, they will be invited to witness the gripping narratives of those who lived through the chaos, reminding us of the enduring impact of such events on individuals and families.
