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Iraqi Film 'The President’s Cake' Serves Hope Amid War

2/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Iraqi filmmaker Hasan Hadi's debut The President’s Cake follows Lamia in early-1990s Iraq as she tries to bake a cake for Saddam Hussein amid shortages.
The story centers Lamia's friendship with Saeed, a streetwise boy, amid wartime hardship.
The child actors deliver expressive performances despite lacking formal acting training.
Cinematography highlights daily life textures.
The film ends with a cake-tasting scene symbolizing hope.

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Story summary

Iraqi filmmaker Hasan Hadi's debut The President’s Cake follows Lamia in early-1990s Iraq as she tries to bake a cake for Saddam Hussein amid shortages.
The story centers Lamia's friendship with Saeed, a streetwise boy, amid wartime hardship.
The child actors deliver expressive performances despite lacking formal acting training.
Cinematography highlights daily life textures.
The film ends with a cake-tasting scene symbolizing hope.