Independent Lens Season 10 Episode 9 Operation Filmmaker

Independent Lens season 10 episode 9, titled "Operation Filmmaker," is an eye-opening documentary that follows the journey of Iraqi film student Muthana Mohmed, who is given the chance of a lifetime to work on a Hollywood film. After the release of his award-winning film "Ahlaam," Muthana is invited to work on the set of the film "Everything is Illuminated," directed by acclaimed actor Liev Schreiber.

The film crew believes that they are doing a good deed by offering Muthana the opportunity to gain experience and exposure in the United States. However, what seems like a benevolent act quickly turns into a disaster as Muthana becomes a burden on the set.

Muthana's naivety and cultural differences make it difficult for him to fit in with the rest of the crew. He struggles to complete the production tasks assigned to him, leading to tension and frustration among the crew members. His behavior becomes increasingly erratic, and his attitude towards the production becomes entitled and ungrateful.

Despite the difficulties they face, Muthana and his struggles become a source of fascination for the filmmakers, who keep their cameras rolling as they witness the difficulties he faces in trying to make his way in Hollywood. As the production draws to a close, the producers realize that they have not only discovered a talented filmmaker but also learned valuable lessons about cultural understanding.

The documentary "Operation Filmmaker" is not only a behind-the-scenes look at the making of a Hollywood film but also a fascinating and often humbling exploration of the cultural differences that exist between different nations. Director Nina Davenport (First Comes Love) skilfully navigates the complex issues, providing the audience with a rare look at the challenges that aspiring filmmakers face when trying to make it in the international industry.

"Operation Filmmaker" raises thought-provoking questions about American foreign policy and Hollywood's impact on the world, exploring broader themes of cultural understanding and cross-cultural communication. It is a compelling and timely documentary that is bound to leave the audience with a deeper understanding of the complexities that come with making films in an increasingly interconnected world.

Overall, the episode provides a fascinating look at the life of an aspiring Iraqi filmmaker and the challenges he faces when pursuing his dreams in Hollywood. It will leave viewers with a renewed appreciation of the power of film to connect people across cultures and the importance of mutual understanding and empathy in our increasingly globalized world.