Seeking asylum
Hassan and his family are on the run seeking refuge in foreign nations after escaping their native land Afghanistan. After the bounty on his head, they fled to Tajikistan whilst submitting asylum applications for the next 14 months. However, the exercise was unsuccessful and thus their journey on camera begins as they sought other means. He documents the harrowing experience of seeking asylum while running for his life and protecting his family.
Extremism
Hassan’s documentary Peace in Afghanistan that featured a Taliban commander prompted the extremist group to put a price on his head. The Taliban assassinated the commander and Hassan's safety was also compromised and had to flee Afghanistan. The film focuses on the crisis of extremist groups in war-torn nations that impose violence and their will on the people. His documentary Peace in Afghanistan delved into the faction that advocates abandoning the violence imposed by the political group. Accordingly, this film highlights the instability caused by the terror group that filmmakers are not safe in their country.
The refugee experience
The documentary highlights the refugee crisis and the experiences of refugees from a war-torn nation into Europe. Hassan showcases the hardships of moving into borders as they traveled through Turkey, Serbia, and Bulgaria. The films delve into the harsh environments and devastating situations that the refugees have to endure. Hassan and his family slept in the treacherous forest and refugee camps with poor conditions and health risks. Moreover, the factors involved in crossing water bodies on unsafe vessels that pose multiple threats. It also illuminates the corruption within the migration sector that prevents Afghan refugees from migrating into Europe.
Love
Though the film is about the refugee experience it is more about family and the enduring love that sustains it. Hassan highlights all the dull, happy, and sad moments of their journey as they stick as a family through it all. Through the tough times, they rely on each other and share their love despite the arguments and adversities. He showcases their happy times that are fueled by the love they share regardless of their current situation.
Filmmaking
The documentary is unique in that its subject is also the filmmaker which offers a groundbreaking viewpoint. As a director, Hassan chose to create a film about their experiences in seeking asylum and fleeing their country. Shot on phones only, the documentary includes the complexities of capturing the right moments considering the risks and adversities. Moreover, as a filmmaker, he highlights the predicament when shooting difficult moments they faced as a family. Though it intends to convey the main message, it also displays the art and intricacies of filmmaking.
