refuge

About Refuge

In the heart of Istanbul, a young social media influencer couple are on the lookout for their next viral post. While browsing a crowded antique shop, the woman, who loves old electronics and the stories they tell, buys an old phone. Back in their room, they discover the phone once belonged to Ahmed and Lina, an Afghan-Syrian couple who had fled their troubled countries and lived simple lives a few years ago. Ahmed had recorded their journey as a gift for Lina, capturing their pain, joy, and the tender moments they shared despite having very little. As the influencer couple watches these videos, they wonder whether the footage will only show the everyday struggles they expected, or whether they will find something so honest and moving in those shaky, unfiltered clips that it changes how they see their carefully curated lives.

This story asks who is granted remembrance. It explores memory and migration, shining a light on the distance between a life truly lived and one carefully staged. It attempts to wonder who gets to finish their story, and who is forced to leave it unfinished.

Refuge Gallery

Snapshots from the film capturing raw, haunting moments.

FAQ

What is Refuge?

Refuge is a short found-footage film by Himayath Khan about migration and memory.

Who made the film?

Produced by Perf Media, Refuge was written and directed by Himayath Khan.

Why found-footage style?

The found-footage genre creates an intimate, raw perspective, drawing viewers into the personal stories of migration and the challenge of who is remembered.

It asks who completes their lives and why others risk everything to survive.

What themes does Refuge explore?

Is Refuge based on real stories?

While fictional, it reflects real struggles faced by migrants and refugees worldwide.