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Iraqi Filmmaker Reflects on Saddam’s Legacy Through Film

2/2/2026

23 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Hadi, an Iraqi filmmaker, recalls Saddam's regime shaping his childhood after soldiers invaded his home.
He criticizes sanctions for causing more harm than bombs, citing a tragedy where a lack of antibiotics left his cousin deaf.
His film The President’s Cake centers on two children, Lamia and Saeed, played by untrained actors.
Hadi says he remains committed to making films about Iraq to share authentic stories, not political agendas.

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Story summary

Hadi, an Iraqi filmmaker, recalls Saddam's regime shaping his childhood after soldiers invaded his home.
He criticizes sanctions for causing more harm than bombs, citing a tragedy where a lack of antibiotics left his cousin deaf.
His film The President’s Cake centers on two children, Lamia and Saeed, played by untrained actors.
Hadi says he remains committed to making films about Iraq to share authentic stories, not political agendas.