INTERPRETERS WANTED

Dir. Robert Ham | Documentary | U.S.A. | 2023 | 1 hr. 23 min. | English and Pashto with English subtitles

Martha’s Vineyard Times publisher Charles Sennott will moderate a discussion to follow with director Robert Ham and film subject Ismail Haqmal

Saifullah Haqmal and his brother Ismail, educated Afghans turned interpreters for the U.S. military, form a lasting bond with American soldier Robert Ham. When his deployment in their country ends, they remain, facing increasing threats from the Taliban. Desperate for Special Immigrant Visa approval from the U.S., they endure years of perilous waiting while communicating urgently with Robert. This film tells their story, from the Soviet-Afghan war in their youth, to Ismail’s final daring mission to escape as U.S. forces withdrew from Afghanistan in 2021.

Tickets for these screenings are general admission, and pay-what-you-can. The average ticket is $15. If you can pay more, we greatly appreciate it!