In January 2020, POV followed up with Hassan Fazili, the director behind the compelling Traveler Movie, Midnight Traveler, to discover what unfolded after the cameras ceased recording their family’s arduous journey. This update reveals their current whereabouts, reflections on the film’s impact, and future aspirations.
Finding Stability in Germany
When asked about his family’s current situation and asylum status, Fazili shared that they arrived in Germany in April 2018 and sought asylum. Initially, their request was turned down by the German government, which instructed them to return to Hungary, threatening deportation if they didn’t comply. Facing precarious living conditions and constant fear of expulsion until November 2019, the family persevered.
“However we didn’t give up and we fought to overcome the problems,” Fazili stated. He emphasized the crucial support they received from new German friends and the film industry, including backing from prestigious festivals like Berlinale, IDFA, Diritti Umani, and Lugano. Ultimately, their resilience and advocacy led to a positive outcome: “We finally got permanent residency in Germany recently and have settled.” The family is now thriving, with Fazili’s daughters, Nargis and Zahra, integrated into the German school system. While currently residing in Lennestadt, they are considering a move to a larger city like Berlin.
Maintaining Afghan Roots and Future Aspirations
Despite settling in Europe, Fazili remains connected to his artistic roots in Kabul. He mentioned ongoing collaborations with friends and colleagues in the Kabul art scene via the internet. Expressing a deep longing for his homeland, Fazili stated, “Although I’m in Europe now, a part of me is still in Afghanistan. I’d like to go back someday,” indicating a desire to screen “Midnight Traveler” in Afghanistan.
Artistic Legacy in the Next Generation
The interview touched upon the artistic inclinations of Fazili’s daughters, who played a role in filming “Midnight Traveler” and impressed viewers with their resilience and spirit. When asked if they were following in his footsteps, Fazili noted their diverse artistic interests: “Both of them like the arts- music, painting, dancing, acting and filmmaking.” While keen to support their choices, Fazili and his wife Fatima are committed to allowing Nargis and Zahra to chart their own paths. He affirmed, “That said, if they choose filmmaking or cinema, I will be happy and support them will all of my abilities.”
The Universal Message of ‘Midnight Traveler’
Reflecting on the global reception of “Midnight Traveler,” Fazili articulated his hopes for the film’s impact. He emphasized the film’s broader relevance beyond his personal story: “While it’s true that this film’s story belongs to my family, it’s not just my family’s story. There are many families around the world that are forced to leave their home and country because of war and oppression.” His aspiration is for “Midnight Traveler” to serve as “a catalyst for removing borders” and to inspire audiences worldwide to embrace hope and strive for a better future for all.
New Horizons: Upcoming Projects
Looking ahead, Fazili shared exciting news about his and Fatima’s upcoming projects. He is diligently working on a new screenplay with the assistance of Zahir Rashed. “I am hoping that I can raise the funds to produce this new movie,” he stated, expressing optimism about bringing his new vision to life. Fatima is also engaged in creative endeavors, writing a short screenplay with Hassan’s support. The couple’s dedication to filmmaking remains strong, as Fazili concluded, “We (Fatima and I) are very hopeful about making our next films, and working very hard to make it happen.”
This update on Hassan Fazili and his family reveals a journey of resilience, adaptation, and continued artistic commitment in the face of displacement. “Midnight Traveler,” the poignant traveler movie that brought their story to the world, continues to resonate, and their future endeavors promise further contributions to cinema and important global conversations.
