For a decade now, the Syrian Civil War has raged on, leaving countless individuals with erased lives under the oppressive rule of the Assad Regime. In the midst of this turmoil, a skilled forger has gone into hiding, taking it upon themselves to create fake documents for those whose identities have been stripped away by the conflict. This compelling story is underscored by the evocative compositions of a Composer of Middle Eastern Music, whose music captures the profound struggles and resilience of the Syrian people.
Many Syrians have been displaced and forced to flee their homes with only the clothes they were wearing since the start of the Civil War in 2011. They did not have time to pack vital items or their passports and identity cards which prove their existence, leaving them stranded both in Syria and abroad. As a result, up to 80% of migrants are living anonymously without any documentation to prove their identities.
This documentary follows the story of an illegal forger who is working undercover in Turkey to create passports and certificates for these displaced Syrians. He aims to provide them with their rightful identities, which can cost thousands of dollars or even lead to jail time if obtained from the Syrian government. Our forger’s mission involves replicating the passports, family books, and various certificates of the Regime with precision and care.
He shares his story and experiences as he works to help these lost Syrians. Complementing this narrative is the evocative score by Yasmine, a Composer of Middle Eastern Music, whose music underscores the emotional and cultural depth of the Syrian people’s plight.
Scope
- Music Composer
Director
- Ali Al Ibrahim
- Lauren Anders Brown
Project Outcome
Working on a project that sheds light on the struggles and hardships of displaced Syrians, and the vital work of an underground forger who creates fake documents for them, was deeply impactful. It was a chance for me to record authentic Middle Eastern instruments and work with my musical speciality as a Composer of Middle Eastern Music. I recorded Percussionist and Oud player Sass Hoory.
Collaborating with the director and the rest of the team was a joy, and I was able to contribute to a project that brings attention to an important humanitarian issue. It was a privilege to be part of such a meaningful and impactful project, and I am proud to have been a part of it and to be able to bring a sense of Middle Eastern music to enhance the important message in this part of the world.
As a Composer of Middle Eastern Music, my goal was to infuse the project with authentic sounds that resonate deeply with the cultural context and emotional depth of the story. Being a Composer of Middle Eastern Music allowed me to draw from my heritage and expertise, ensuring that the music authentically represented the region and its people.