An interpreter for the U.S. military in Iraq and Afghanistan was more than a translator. The interpreter had to explain obscure motives and easily misunderstood customs to all parties in a deadly conflict. Considered traitors to their countries and religion on one hand, and not always trusted by their American employers on the other, the interpreters were at constant risk of being killed. The thanklessness of the job turned out to be worse when the U.S. proved reluctant to help them and their families evacuate and relocate. Whether he finally reaches the haven of the U.S., or is killed before he is granted a visa, Khan and Caballero’s film suggests that an interpreter can never escape being crushed between warring cultures.
Special Q&A with Sofian Khan, Andrés Caballero, and Naqeebullah Malikzada following the film.
