Delves into the world of makeshift oil refineries and the stark realities of life in war-torn northern Syria,. Mahmood is a prominent figure in these operations, navigating complex working conditions and local dynamics.
Cinematography
Handheld intimacy that never feels exploitative.
Direction
Shakiba's access feels almost impossible.
Director
Arshia Shakiba
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
These DIY refineries exploded across Syria after 2012; locals call it 'burning oil' and it's one of the most toxic jobs on earth.
Shakiba filmed in Rojava, where Kurdish-led autonomous governance complicates simple 'victim' narratives—Mahmood's operation exists in legal gray zones even rebels debate.
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