Art of Escape

In a world where creativity and despair entwine, a 16-year-old Afghan artist, Soraya, finds solace in her art, channelling her fears into stunning drawings and sculptures that are as beautiful as they are dark. Her story, documented over five years, is one of desperation and hope as she attempts to escape her violent husband in Iran and join her mother in Austria. The film, A Fox Under a Pink Moon, is a subtle and textured portrait of Soraya's life, weaving together chilling scenes of her escape attempts with her art, surreal animations, and dancing.

The documentary is the result of a unique collaboration between filmmaker Mehrdad Oskouei and Soraya herself, who filmed the footage using her phone while Oskouei worked remotely. This approach has yielded a profound and beautiful portrait of survival, creativity, and hope. The film features many of Soraya's drawings, which include recurring figures such as a loyal fox, a pink moon, and a clown, each carrying its own significance in her story.

A Fox Under a Pink Moon is a documentary that has already gained recognition, winning Best Film at IDFA 2025. The film is a testament to the power of art and creativity in the face of adversity. With its blend of reality and vision, it offers a unique perspective on the human experience.

The documentary will be screened at the Curzon Canterbury Westgate in Canterbury on Friday, 13 November 2026. Tickets are with the button beside the article. This screening is part of the DocHouse: LDNDOCS series, which showcases thought-provoking documentaries from around the world.

The film's background is rooted in the collaborative efforts of its directors, Mehrdad Oskouei and Soraya Akhlaghi. As an Iranian documentary, it has gained international recognition, including the award for best international documentary at IDFA. With its powerful story and unique approach, A Fox Under a Pink Moon is a documentary that will resonate with audiences and leave a lasting impression.