Noura Kevorkian: Documenting a Decade of Syrian Life in 'Batata' - 121

The Formula Podcast with Trevor Carlson

Noura Kevorkian, the director of the film Batata, shares the origin and journey of the film, which started as a story about potato farmers and evolved into a 13-year saga following the lives of Syrian refugees. She emphasizes the importance of refugee stories and the need for empathy and understanding. Noura discusses the impact of collective trauma on communities and the power of documentary filmmaking to create connections and change perspectives. She also provides advice for aspiring filmmakers and highlights the ways in which people can support Batata and refugees.
Takeaways

• Refugee stories are important and can help create empathy and understanding.
• Documentary filmmaking is a commitment that requires emotional and mental well-being.
• It is crucial to take care of oneself and have a support system when working on difficult subjects.
• Finding and telling powerful stories can inspire and make a difference in the world.
• Supporting refugee stories and organizations can help raise awareness and provide assistance to those in need.

Chapters
00:00
The Origin of Batata

03:10
The Syrian Revolution

04:15
The 13-Year Saga

06:31
The Global Refugee Crisis

07:54
The Message of Batata

10:17
The Importance of Refugee Stories

12:15
The Hospitality of Refugees

15:17
The Collective Trauma of Refugees

19:58
Creating Empathy Through Film

22:12
The Impact of Refugees on Communities

23:32
The Emotional Toll of Filmmaking

26:44
Finding and Telling Powerful Stories

29:40
The Continued Journey of Batata

35:18
Highlighting Extraordinary Individuals

37:17
Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

43:26
The Message from Maria

45:43
How to Support Batata and Refugees
To support the future of Batata back the GoFundMe - https://www.gofundme.com/f/longitudinal-social-study-of-refugees?qid=823cccf6e56f01982f2cf055d41c43af

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