The Curiosity Lecture series returns to the Festival with a line-up of our most thought-stirring speakers delivering one-time talks on topics of intrigue, interest and importance. Writer and filmmaker Benjamin Gilmour (Jirga) steps off the plane from Afghanistan straight into this Curiosity Lecture. While many foreign reporters have been banned by the Taliban, Benjamin has been given rare access to some of the top leaders of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA). Benjamin will share stories from his recent visit to the country where he is making his next film, and speak to his observations of the current political and social situation on the ground.
Supported by UNSW Sydney.
Benjamin Gilmour (Australian)
Benjamin Gilmour is a writer and filmmaker, director of the films Jirga (2019), Paramedico (2012) and Son of a Lion (2008). He is the author of the books Warrior Poets (Pier 9), Paramedico (HarperCollins) and The Gap (Penguin Random House). He has travelled extensively in Afghanistan where he filmed his latest feature film Jirga, Australia's entry to the 91st Academy Awards. He lives in Northern NSW, Australia.
