The Impact of Sanctions on Iraqi Society: Insights from Hasan Hadi's Film

Hasan Hadi, an Iraqi filmmaker, explores the profound effects of life under Saddam Hussein's regime and the subsequent impact of international sanctions in his film *The President's Cake*. Hadi's narrative focuses on the experiences of two children, Lamia and her friend Saeed, reflecting the broader societal issues faced by Iraqis during this tumultuous period.

‘Yes, they would execute a child’: the film about a girl who has to bake a birthday cake for Saddam Hussein

Hadi's upbringing in Iraq was marked by fear and oppression. He recalls a childhood where speaking against Saddam Hussein was unthinkable, instilling a deep sense of terror among citizens. His father's opposition to the regime led to a life filled with secrecy and danger, exemplified by a harrowing incident where soldiers invaded their home, leaving his grandmother in a state of panic and confusion.

‘Yes, they would execute a child’: the film about a girl who has to bake a birthday cake for Saddam Hussein

Hasan Hadi is a prominent figure in contemporary Iraqi cinema, having studied film in New York. His commitment to telling authentic stories from Iraq's past is evident in his work. Hadi emphasizes that his film is not intended to be overtly political; rather, it aims to portray the realities of life for ordinary Iraqis during a time of great hardship.

‘Yes, they would execute a child’: the film about a girl who has to bake a birthday cake for Saddam Hussein

Hadi argues that the effects of sanctions imposed on Iraq were more damaging than the physical destruction caused by bombs. He highlights the severe economic decline, noting that a teacher's salary plummeted from $800 to just $5 per month due to sanctions. This economic devastation led to dire consequences for public health, exemplified by the story of Hadi's cousin, who lost his hearing due to a lack of antibiotics.

‘Yes, they would execute a child’: the film about a girl who has to bake a birthday cake for Saddam Hussein

Hadi expresses a desire to remain loyal to the lived experiences of Iraqis rather than push a political agenda. He states, “I don’t want to be political. I want to be loyal to what life was under those conditions.” His focus is on storytelling, particularly through the eyes of children, which he believes captures the essence of the Iraqi experience during this era.

‘Yes, they would execute a child’: the film about a girl who has to bake a birthday cake for Saddam Hussein

While Hadi aims to present a nuanced view of life in Iraq, some critics may argue that any portrayal of such a complex history inevitably carries political implications. The challenge remains in balancing personal narratives with the broader socio-political context.

‘Yes, they would execute a child’: the film about a girl who has to bake a birthday cake for Saddam Hussein

• “I believe sanctions are more violent than bombs,” — Hasan Hadi, Filmmaker

‘Yes, they would execute a child’: the film about a girl who has to bake a birthday cake for Saddam Hussein

• “They asked my grandmother her name. In terror she forgot. She looked at her daughters and asked them, ‘What’s my name?’ The powerlessness, the hopelessness – these memories burn into your soul.” — Hasan Hadi, reflecting on the fear instilled by the regime.

‘Yes, they would execute a child’: the film about a girl who has to bake a birthday cake for Saddam Hussein

• “I want to make films about Iraq. Yes.” — Hasan Hadi, on his future projects.

‘Yes, they would execute a child’: the film about a girl who has to bake a birthday cake for Saddam Hussein

Hadi's commitment to filmmaking in Iraq suggests a growing movement to document and reflect on the country's complex history through cinema. His work may inspire other filmmakers to explore similar themes, contributing to a richer understanding of Iraq's past and present.

‘Yes, they would execute a child’: the film about a girl who has to bake a birthday cake for Saddam Hussein