Vientiene, Laos... The New Lao-Paris Hotel

June 2 2009
Vientiene, Laos
New Lao-Paris Hotel

Well, I switched hotels after the eventful night at the Siri 2 Guesthouse. The new hotel is called the New Lao-Paris Hotel, and it sits just off the corner of my favorite little street. The little street I am referring to is the one that leads from Thaisammee straight into the fountain circle. Can’t miss it.

Anyway, the new hotel is incredible. The cost is 800 THB per night and worth every penny… well maintained, excellent staff (Sai, who works the night shift is one of the nicest and most professional hotel managers I’ve run across anywhere, period). My room is clean, comfortable… everything works, and the design is very nice. I have a motorbike, and at night the staff lets me park it inside an art gallery connected to the hotel, which is locked until morning. Breakfast is included as well, and there is both free wireless internet and connected computers available in the lobby. Although, I have not tried the French restaurant next to the lobby, it looks great. And, I can tell you that it is loved and cared for by a French woman whom I saw doing absolutely everything in preparation for the evening… including personally ironing each table cloth (something Westerners almost universally leave for local help to do).

I think that best of all, one gets a felling of the old Indochina when staying here… it’s got that French colonial feel and a touch of class. Location wise, it doesn’t get any better in Vientiane. You can walk to the best restaurants, which are about 150 meters away, and to Jooma Café and Jules Market within a few minutes as well. They only have twenty rooms so book ahead. I am absolutely amazed at the value this place offers for my money. The difference between what I received at Siri 2 for $14, and the New Lao-Paris Hotel for $20 is simply vast.

Siri 2 Guesthouse in Vientiane Laos

1 June 09
Vientiane, Laos
Last night was rough… In violation of my own rule, I broke down yesterday and stayed in a guest house. On first look it seemed alright… separate rooms, some with their own bathrooms and air conditioning. Since I was hot as hell and it’d been a long couple of days getting to Laos, I took a room at “Siri 2“.

Before we went out on the town I took a shower. Just as I got all lathered up, the power went out. Pitch dark, and the water was instantly cold. So, I finished my shower in the dark. The towel provided by the hotel smelled like old dirty athletic socks. I’m mean really bad.

We went out on the town and had a great dinner and some beer near the Mekong River. Upon returning to the Siri 2 Guesthouse, I got my key from the kid downstairs and proceeded to take another shower before hitting the sack… same exact thing happened with the power. This time I went back out into the room and turned off the air and the main light, then hit the circuit breaker with patched, and exposed wiring sticking out of it. I was then able to take an uninterrupted shower. To that point, this was all minor stuff for me. No big deal.

Then I got into bed… I had not initially noticed the bed cover. It was stained almost completely yellow, with cigarette burns throughout. I yanked it off the bed and put on clothes, including a long sleeve shirt to sleep in. Rest time. As soon as I turned off the light, I heard scurrying that sounded like it came from somewhere right next to my bed and near my head. I flipped the light back on and there was nothing. Light off again, and there it was. Scurrying little feet. Eventually, I figured out that there must have been an army of rats living in the walls, and they were just traveling about. Ok, at least they were not in the room itself… as far as I knew.

I tried to sleep, but it was difficult with the aircon rattling. Eventually, I just flipped it off. And then there was quiet. Keep in mind it was now close to 1am, and I had to wake up at 0615. At some point I drifted off to sleep, and then it started. Loud banging just outside my door. It went on for close to an hour. I was too tired to get up and confront the idiot responsible, but it was way too loud for me to ignore. Anyway, I figured this was just par for the course at a guesthouse. Probably some poor sap got locked out of his shared room by his buddy who was passed out in there. I kind of felt sorry for him. Then it stopped…

Then it started… at about 4am. Again for another hour. I was about to give up sleeping altogether. But, the problem was that I had a full day ahead of me, including riding an off road motorcycle from Vientiane to Vang Vang… 160k up some crap roads. Well, sometime after 5am the guy stopped his pounding again. I drifted off to sleep once more. This time with the aircon on since it’d become super hot.

Shortly there after… someone was trying to open my door. I started to wake, and then I instantly jumped out of bed in the attack position as the door actually opened. I said “what the fuck?’, as I cocked my fist back. Then I heard, “Oh, sorry, sorry, sorry.” And saw the little guy from downstairs who worked the front desk. He closed the door quickly before I could grab him, and went away. At that point I was thinking… holy shit, can this get any worse? Anyway, I had to get some sleep so I just got right back into bed and fell asleep, exhausted.

Then there was knocking on my door… it was now 5 something AM. I got up and opened the fucking door, and there was the little dude from downstairs again. He asked me how I got into my room. I just stared at him, wondering why on earth he could be asking me such a stupid question at 5AM. I wanted to strangle him. I said I used the key he gave me when I walked in. He asked to see the key. Pissed as all hell, I grabbed it from the desk and showed him. He took a look and said, “Oh, you have key for room 208.” I said something to the effect of… “Well, that’s the fucking key you gave me and guess what? It fucking works on this door.” He then switched keys with me and I slammed the door in his face. I was angry.

I laid in bed for 15 more minutes and then got up for a shower… turning everything off before entering the bathroom, of course. Needless to say, I am in a different hotel tonight. The price is only $6 more but oh is it a world of difference… let me tell you.

Combat PSYOP Leaflet Drop, Afghanistan

This video is of a PSYOP mission during which the aircraft came in low over the trees and below a ridge... within 75 ft of Taliban hiding out in the mountains. The message dropped on their heads was a demand for surrender.

PSYOP Mission in Afghanistan

This was filmed during a PSYOP mission in the Kunar and Ghazni regions of Afghanistan in 2006. Leaflets were dropped from a low and fast flying aircraft over remote villages.

HD Guerrilla Cams

Below are to HD cams I specifically bought for discrete filming in Afghanistan. They are both very small and shoot very high quality footage. The Panasonic's is broadcast level quality. Note that I used black textured paint to cover most of the Panasonic's reflective body.

Sanyo Xacti HD2

Panasonic HDC-Sd1

Movie Stills

Below are a few stills from the short film I recently advised on. The story was about a couple of army snipers on a mission gone bad. I think the shoot turned out pretty well and the guys we cast not only looked the part but did an outstanding job.

Palwasha TV Series Update

Finally, an update for you on the status of my Palwasha TV series. I've copied portions of a letter below from my line producer in Afghanistan. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that the show is already being broadcast in the US and Europe. I will provide broadcast details as soon as I get it myself.

What is also quite exciting is the request for me to provide more assistance with the production of the feature film about the revered Northern Alliance Commander Ahmad Shah Massoud. I believe this is another great project that will benefit the Afghans if done well.


"Dear Michael,
Hope Everything is fine with you. Here I am fine and working in different project. Very sorry for late information.

Palwasha TV Series broadcasting started on Ariana TV in Afghanistan. Broadcasting started on 10th Jan., 2008. Every Thursday 9.00 PM they are broadcasting in Afghanistan and repeat broadcast on Friday 10.30 AM. They are broadcasting USA and Europe on same day.

We have very good feedback from different audience. Every body likes the story and quality of serial. Total 20 episodes will broadcast.

Here I am writing to you regarding one feature film on Ahmad Shah Massoud. This film will be very beneficial for Afghans.

Just I want if possible for you, can you do the liaising work for funding of this film. We are ready to pay your charges or if you have any other logical system work together I am ready to discuss. I am very hopeful about this work and I know you are capable to manage the funding for this."

Article About Palwasha Director Prasant Satpathy

Orissa's Prasant Satpathy directs Afgan TV Serial Palwasha
Wed, 21 Nov 2007 16:24:00

Prasant who was working in Doordarshan (TV Channel of India), the biggest Public Broadcaster in India, as an Asstt. Producer than Producer since Nov.1993 to July 2004.

By
Our Special Correspondent

Prasant Satpathy
Bhubaneswar, November 21 ( Odisha.in ) Prasant Satpathy, 39-year old young Director from Orissa has produced the first TV serial for the Afgan Television . The serial named as " Palwasha " is considered as the first step for woman empowerment and prove a struggle for survival through social respect.

Prasant who was working in Doordarshan (TV Channel of India), the biggest Public Broadcaster in India, as an Asstt. Producer than Producer since Nov.1993 to July 2004. My major assignment was working in Production (producing programmes), Presentation & Coordination wing of Doordarshan Sports Channel, Central Production Center, (CPC) New Delhi. Doordarsha is presently working as a Director Video Department (Head of Department) in an International Media NGO (HQ at Paris, France) named AINA Media & Culture Center, Kabul, Afghanistan, from July 2004 and continuing till date, Prasant says.

Prasant says," My present 3+ years experience as a Director (Head of the Department) Video Department in AINA International Media NGO at Kabul, Afghanistan is big experience to work in a war torn country where Freedom of Expression is still far reach. The prime goal and objective of the organization is to train and make self sustain (especially woman) of youths in the field of film making.

The first camerawomen and women video film makers were trained by my department just after fall of Taliban Regime. The same legacy is still continuing to provide training to become professionals.

Starting from the Management, Planning, and Coordination with major international donors (like USAID, IOM, UNICEF, UNDP, World Bank, US Embassy, Asia Foundation, US Army etc.) and Production of big project films are my normal work assignment.

I have wide experience in designing and producing promotional films for various media campaigns in Afghanistan. Two major campaigns throughout Afghanistan are "Back to school" (Girls Education in Afghanistan) & "Iodine Salt Uses" for UNICEF were my biggest assignment for the year 2005. "

"Palwasha", (Rays of Rising Sun), a TV serial that seeks to preserve and protect the Afghan tradition and culture, while simultaneously giving the Afghan people a serial of their own that is also capable of competing with Indian standard of media.

THE STORY
Excellence knows no boundary, in my beginning is my end and in my end is my beginning. This is the beginning of story Palwasha.

As I remembered it was one of the very early morning that day, just Sun about to rise in the horizon of east, Azan sounded in Musjid, the first rays of rising sun touches to earth, in this holy moment Palwasha, Palwasha born with new hope to spread light and remove darkness, fight against vices to restore virtues.

When we thought to give birth Palwasha, at the first instance flashes came to my mind to remember the long sufferings of Afghan women behind their Burkha. Then thought conceived and we visualise to give new shape of Palwasha as a torch bearer to promote social justice in the length and breadth of country.

From the very childhood as a friend, philosopher and guide we up bring Palwasha with morals to feed. Then educate her in order to respect Islamic values with social traditions, we teach her and even finally we molded her to make a judge. Now she stands tall and never mind to look back.
Now Palwasha created history to became a first woman Judge in the Provincial Court. Her devotion and honesty never daunted her to take any bold and fare decision even against to her family members.

When she seats in the chair of Judge, respects Law & Justice, gives the best judgement, all are equal in her eyes. An unforgettable moment when she announce life imprisonment decision to her own brother Arman in a crowded court.

For fraction of time her sisterly affections and emotions weaken her hand and heart, but her inner conscience awake and remind her position and responsibility. Any wrong action never forgives her in the name of Great God.

Palwasha like being amongst Afghan Woman and every one has a story to tell! She likes to hear their tales, and she love to tell her stories... when she is in camera... she saw the colors of emotions... she hear music in silences...and she share them all...and even desire for more...
After all Palwasha proved herself as proud daughter of the soil and examples for many strugglers those who have dreams to fulfil and saviour for poor and deprived human beings waiting for social justice in the country.

Many success many failures but after all she is winner and she is Palwasha - Rays of Rising Sun. The TV serial has become extremely popular in Afganisthan.

Prasant a successful director was awarded "DOORDARSHAN NATIONAL AWARD – 2004" As a Best Documentary Producer of the year for a biographical film "Beyond Rainbows". (Tribute to Nobel Laureate Dr. C.V. Raman, on the occasion of International Celebration of 75 Years of "Raman Effect"). The biggest Public Broadcasting Award of India.
Odisha.in

Kabul TV: First Afghan serial

Starting this week on Kabul TV: First Afghan serial, made by Indians
Neha Sinha

Posted online: Monday, November 19, 2007 at 0000 hrs Print Email
Mumbai-based actor Sonal Udeshi plays Palwasha —a daughter, sister and first female judge in an Afghanistan provincial court.

KABUL, NOVEMBER 18: Loud music, action replays of the same expression, thrice, reverberating dialogues, lots of tears and tense drama — the Indian living room is going to Afghanistan, in Dari and Pashto.

Starting November 25, TV sets in the strife-torn western neighbour will start beaming Palwasha, the country’s first homemade commercial serial. Made by Indians, of course.
After dubbed versions of Indian mega soaps like Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and Heena, Palwasha will tell the story of an Afghan woman of the same name. And her journey as a daughter, a sister, and more significantly, the first female judge in an Afghan provincial court.
Sure enough, the “serial on law and justice through a family drama” starts with a court sequence — the staple of so many Hindi serials and Bollywood movies — where the young Palwasha, trembling, hands down 10 years in jail for a murderer, her brother.

Says serial director Prasant Satpaty, a 11-year Doordarshan veteran: “The social propaganda of the 20-episode serial is the uplift of the Afghan woman and the triumph of justice. We are trying to instruct Afghans that they should trust the legal system based on the Shariat and the Quran, and not resort to serving justice by themselves.”

Satpaty is now working for Aina, a Kabul-based NGO, which is producing Palwasha with 40 per cent funding from USAID. “We are setting a precedent in the entertainment industry here. No one has shot court scenes before in this country, and we had a Supreme Court judge with us to help during shooting,” says Satpaty. Mumbai-based actor Sonal Udeshi plays Palwasha while Viveki Prakash, who has been involved with the news-based Indian programme Sansani, is the assistant director. Shot in Kabul, the technical team, make-up men and sound engineers were also flown in from Mumbai. “People love these serials so much that they have started adopting customs depicted on them. We heard that an Afghan boy started praying to a Tulsi plant in Kabul which led to a violent reaction from his father. The Indian influence on culture here has even been debated in parliament and is being perceived as a threat to Afghan culture,” says Satpaty.

“But in this serial, the cultural context is entirely Afghani, made just for this audience,” he adds.
In fact, the popularity of Indian serials have taken many in Afghanistan by surprise, especially considering the trouble viewers go through just to switch on their TV sets. Says Deputy Minister of Energy, M Sediq Ashan: “Only 10-15% of Afghanistan has electricity. This is mainly through hydroelectric power. For those who don’t have supply, homes and TVs are run by diesel generators.”

Yet, “Kabul stops when Indian TV serials come on air,” says Ramika Ahmad, executive director, Meco Construction and Road Building Company, and a member of the erstwhile royal family which was exiled during Taliban rule.

“This is our favourite form of entertainment,” says Ahmad, adding, “My personal favourite is Heena. I bought a TV for my cook as he insisted on watching Tulsi on Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. We love Indian family dramas, as we have large families too. We can identify with the traditional values endorsed in these serials. Like Indian women, Afghan women also love to dress up.”

Apparently, USAID will also help in producing DVDs of Palwasha. And as for Aina, which also has offices in Washington DC and Paris, the next project is already around the corner: a 30-part serial on law and justice.

Afghan Justice: The TV Series

Last year, while working in Afghanistan, I noticed that there was a general lack of understanding on the part of the Afghan populace regarding their justice system. This was due to there being in place no program whatsoever to promote the system, and also due to a concerted effort by the Taliban to miss-inform and discredit all aspects of the Justice System, from the lowest members of the police force to the Afghan Constitution itself.

I proposed to create a campaign that would entertain, educate and counter. The entertainment aspect of the campaign would be in its presentation. The education aspect would be the content of the stories. And through the educational stories presented in an entertaining fashion, we would succeed in countering the Taliban propaganda.

I received just under US $1,000,000 to complete the project. Significant funding for any would-be producer. Especially in Central Asia, where I was able to employ some outstanding talent.

The stories themselves are presented in three formats. The first are 30-60 min dramas disseminated via TV and DVD.

The second format will be radio. Shortened versions of the same series would be broadcast throughout Afghanistan via popular radio stations.

The third format is a ‘Mobile Theater’. The concept behind the mobile theater is to reach people in areas so rural that they are virtually cut off from the world.

Each story in the series begins with an issue, such as a particular crime, social, or legal issue and follow the lives and actions of the victims, criminals and various members of the justice system. Through this story telling, the Afghan populace gains exposure to their justice system, their rights under the system and how, in theory, things should work. Therefore, they gain appreciation for the system, and some understanding as to how certain members of the system should carry out their duties.

The pictures above are from the filming of the TV series, on location in Afghanistan. The crew took great personal risk, often venturing far from the relative security of Kabul in order to get the right scenes. There are a total of 15 episodes in the series.

There is a tremendous amount of interest in this project from both within Afghanistan and around the world. Frankly, I did not expect that. My intent was simply to reach the Afghan people themselves. However, this is the first project of its kind in Afghanistan and has employed and helped to train a new generation of Afghan filmmakers, crew and actors. So, I hope that the interest generates more Afghan based projects that provide jobs and inform the public.
A press conference was held last month during which representatives from local and international media joined to learn about the innovative project and those involved. The premier is scheduled for release in October.

I will post actual scenes from the series soon, more photos, continue with expanded commentary on the project, and keep everyone informed of our progress.

Palwasha TV Series

I am pictured on the right along with the Bollywood star and lead actress in our series Sonal Udeshi, and Line Producer, Brajesh Verma. We met in Bangkok recently to discuss the Palwasha, Afghan Justice System Television Series and the plan for the premier. We also discussed upcoming and proposed projects such as a feature film and documentary to be filmed in Afghanistan.

Sonal Udeshi bags lead role in Afghan serial 'Palwasha'
Saturday - May 12, 2007
Televisionpoint.com Correspondent

Television actress Sonal Udeshi has bagged the lead role in an international serial to be shot in Kabul. The serial called 'Palwasha' is funded by an Afghanistan-based NGO Aina Media, the story is about the struggle of a courageous Afghan girl who believes in standing by her own convictions. She studies to be a lawyer and eventually becomes a judge. Later she is put under testing circumstances where she has to oppose her own relatives to fight for her rights in a highly oppressive society."I think the way I look helped me. Being fair complexioned and dark haired, I could easily pass off as an Afghan girl, that's what the director thought when he saw me and I got the role after the audition," says Sonal. "Although it sounded very exciting to go and shoot in Kabul for 35 days, I was a little scared looking at the high number of terrorist attacks there. But I have been assured complete safety by the director and I hope the shooting will end well," she adds. Her parents were also apprehensive to let her go to Kabul, but she managed to convince them. "If something has to happen, it can take place anywhere so there was no point worrying too much. This is the first time an Afghanistan-based NGO has roped in Indian actors for a serial," says Sonal.She has been cautioned by the director not to wear jeans and T-shirts in Kabul and to be careful about keeping her head covered while stepping out. "I am going to enjoy every bit of it. It's going to be a completely new experience for me," says Sonal. Sonal has already played lead roles in Kyon Apne Huye Paraye and Lal Kothi Alwida on DD-National channel. She is also doing a Urdu serial on DD Urdu called Ranjish which will be released soon. Besides, she has also done many advertisements and will soon be shooting for a Telugu film after she returns from Kabul.

Actress Marina Golbarhari ("Osama" 2003)

Pictured above is Marina Golbarhari, the Afghan girl that was plucked from the streets of Kabul, while begging, and became the renowned star of "Osama". The movie was about a girl and what was left of her family trying to survive under the Taliban regime. I saw this movie within the first few weeks of my arrival in Afghanistan and was quite moved by the story and the actress herself. You would think that with the fame that followed her successful debut, fortune would follow for Marina.

In some respects it did. Her family lives in a decent home in Kabul now and does not need to beg. However, regardless of this bit of fortune, Marina has been unable to capitalize upon her success largely due to her father's delicate sensibilities. To put it bluntly... he doesn't want her to act at all. To him it brings dishonor, and therefore he does not allow her to pursue her dream.

While developing my TV series in Afghanistan, I inquired about where Marina was, and whether we could get her to act in the shows. First, I knew she was a capable actress, and more importantly, I'd read an interview in which she spoke of her dream of continuing to act. I wanted to help her and I had the power to do so.

Another article I read also mentioned her domineering father. I hoped that my director could speak with her father and convince him that the role was good for both her and the country.

Amazingly enough, the line producer knew Marina and had no problems getting her to agree to the role. He was also able to get her father onboard, reluctantly, as well. I was extremely pleased to have her working with us on the project.

Everything was moving ahead and going well, until one day Marina's father simply took her from the set during filming. Apparently, he'd had issues with several of the scenes already shot and forced the crew to make changes to the script more than a few times. The director obliged every time, but in the end it was not enough. By the time her father took her away for good, the director had had about enough anyway. We had other well known stars carrying the lead rolls, which required adults, so the effect of her leaving had minimal impact on the project.

My only regret is for Marina, who I tried to help by giving her a role that could propel her career forward. Unfortunately, her situation is an example of the extreme mindset that some men still hold in Afghanistan. Basically, they feel that women should not work in public. On the other hand, a woman has to be very brave to stand in the public eye in this deeply conservative country. Female radio and TV journalists have been assassinated during the last year. Perhaps Marina's father's true concern is for her safety. I don't know.

Either way, our work continues so that women like Marina can some day freely follow their dreams in Afghanistan, whatever they may be. There is time for her. She is still young and other women are driving forward in Afghan society, clearing a path for those that follow. Perhaps her dream is not lost.

Afghan Media and Culture Center

AINA, the Afghan Media and Culture Center, which is helping to bring a free press to a nation long silenced by Taliban, is the non-profit media/ production company that has worked on several of my projects in Afghanistan. The first picture is of a magazine cover that AINA produces locally in Kabul. It's a very interesting and well written publication.

The second picture is from a page in, world-renowned photographer, Reza's book that was presented to me by the director's of AINA. Reza was a creator of AÏNA.

The following powerful image is a photograph from the cover of one of Reza's outstanding books.
The last picture is from a magazine article that describes the only theater in Kabul, its restoration, and the positive effects it is having on the population. In the picture you can see the young kids waiting to watch a movie. Believe me... the world is about to open up for them.

If you could see the children on the streets of Kabul you would feel their hope for the future. A new generation is growing up free of the Taliban and benefiting from education and exposure to the world through media. Please click on the picture to read the article.

Palwasha TV Series Press Conference Photos

Afghan Justice: The TV Series (Location Photos)

AFGHAN MUSIC PRODUCTION PROJECT

AFGHAN MUSIC PRODUCTION PROJECT

a. CONCEPT:

i. Belmont-Murray joins with Vineripe Productions and other industry professionals in an effort to revive the Afghan music industry by supporting and producing Afghan musicians from across the globe. Special emphasis will focus on supporting the Afghan music/art community located within Afghanistan. A state of the art, professional recording / post production facility will be established in Dubai. The Director of Vineripe Music (Los Angeles) will manage Dubai operations. A network of talented producers and industry veterans utilizing the latest equipment and recording techniques will provide support in Los Angeles. The ultimate goal is to slowly establish a prominent Afghan studio in Kabul, run by Afghans. Training will be provided by representatives from the music industry in Los Angeles.

In addition to the Afghan music project, the studios in Kabul, Dubai and Los Angeles will directly support government and non-government organizations, providing CMA and Information Operations with a video and music production capability that is unmatched anywhere in the world.

Support for this project will spread a tremendous amount of goodwill and directly counter the Taliban’s assault on the Afghan music industry; reviving a formerly thriving industry and breathing life back into a troubled country. The world will witness this revival and see Afghanistan and the US in a more positive light.


b. LOCATION:
i. Los Angeles: Recording facilities / professional support, mixing and mastering services, and manufacturing. N. America based Afghan musicians will record at this location.
ii. Dubai: Main recording studio with mastering capabilities. Afghans will be trained here for future development of the Kabul based studio. Europe, Middle East and Asia based musicians will record at this location.
iii. Kabul: Recording studio for Afghanistan based musicians. Will be developed into a regional recording and mastering studio.


c. FUNDING:
i. This is a non-profit project. We propose that funding for this project come from a variety of sources. The US Government should be the primary contributor, financing the costs of equipment and personnel initially for 3-5 years. After five years the industry may be self-supporting. Initially, the goal is to simply get Afghan music produced and distributed professionally so it can be appreciated by Afghans and the rest of the world.

ii. The US Government benefits directly by spreading goodwill, providing professional jobs, and training for Afghans, and by having a dedicated team of professionals available for all types of production.

iii. Various other music industry related businesses and philanthropists will also benefit from the publicity of this project. Through their generosity they are re-building the entertainment industry of a war-torn nation. Contributions by these entities and persons will guarantee their inclusion in articles, interviews, and the documentary film that will be produced about the project.

d. SERVICES:

i. Audio Production Services:
1. Engineering
2. Recording
3. Editing
4. Mixing and mastering (stereo and 5.1)
5. Sound design
6. Voiceover
7. Dubbing
8. ADR

ii. Consulting / Project management services also include:
1. Music/video production
2. Video encoding (SD /HD / Broadband / Mobile)
3. Video editing
4. Subtitling / localization
5. Special effects
6. DVD menus / DVD authoring
7. Manufacturing (CD/DVD)
8. Web development
9. Distribution


e. EQUIPMENT:

i. TBD by industry professionals. Producer Jason Brahms of Sony Pictures and Vineripe will develop the list for the Dubai and Afghanistan locations. Extensive equipment is already in place and available in Los Angeles.

Palwasha Courtroom Scene Pics

Faizullah the Bodyguard

In this photo I am with Faizullah and our "trusty" carbine AKs in Kabul, Afghanistan. Faizullah is quite a famous Mujahideen fighter from the Northern Alliance (our allies against the Soviets and Taliban/AQ). I was very honored to have him work with us.

Afghan Music Fest a Hit!

Glastonbury - Afghan style
JEROME STARKEY IN KABUL
RECORD numbers of music fans in Afghanistan packed into the country's biggest-ever pop festival this weekend, on a reclaimed minefield outside Kabul.
More than 170,000 men, women and children attended the three-day party, on a farm dubbed Glastonbury Afghanistan.
It was by far Afghanistan's biggest recreational gathering since the fall of the Taleban almost six years ago. Under the hardline regime most music, live and recorded, was banned.
The festival was ostensibly an agricultural fair, laid on at a cost of at least £750,000 by USAID, the United States' main aid donor in Afghanistan. But most Afghans at the event were simply there to have a good time.
"I came to the fair because I love pop music," said Said Ahmed Rahik, 17, a student from Kabul. "My father told me not to come because he wants me to study all the time. But I came without permission because there is nowhere else to see music like this in Kabul."
Headline acts on the purpose-built stage included winners of Afghan Star, the country's fledgling imitation of Pop Idol, circus performers, stand-up comedians and traditional Afghan folk singers.
Marianne Walimi, 27, a photographer from Kabul, said: "It's a great thing for Afghan people. Always Afghanistan has been at war. It is good to have something like this for a change. It is fun."
Unlike Glastonbury, though, Badam Bagh farm, in the northern suburbs of Kabul, has not been turned over entirely to music. Originally a government site, the 57-hectare farm fell into disrepair during three decades of war. It was mined, fought over and eventually claimed by Kabul's dogfighters. The government reclaimed the land last year, and with USAID invested £500,000 clearing more than 50 unspent munitions.
"It took a week to clear each mine," said Mohammad Haroon Zareef, the site manager.
"But now it is the biggest party in Afghanistan. The farmers are coming to learn about new crops and techniques, but they can have a fun time as well."
Around the arena were dozens of stalls showcasing everything from live fish from Jallalabad and carpets from Herat, to sweetcorn from Bolivia.
Inside, tens of thousands of people were dancing, clapping and singing to the music, as it was broadcast live across Afghanistan's Tolo TV network.
Security was a major concern for the festival organisers. But the hundreds of soldiers, secret police and private contractors involved in guarding Badam Bagh this week were not looking for people sneaking in without tickets. The event was free.
Nonetheless, the threat from insurgents even in Kabul remains real. A series of suicide attacks in the capital this summer claimed more than 60 lives.
The Kabul festival passed off peacefully. Organisers claimed the secret was feeding more than 300 policemen lunch.

PSYOP Brochure

The photo is from the inside of a brochure that I created along with my design team as a recruiting tool for a Tactical Psychological Operations Unit. The campaign, of which it was a part, was successful in attracting a more intelligent, yet adventurous soldier.