The President's Cake: A Neorealist Exploration of Childhood Under Saddam Hussein

"The President's Cake," directed by Hasan Hadi, is a debut feature that portrays the struggles of childhood in early-1990s Iraq under Saddam Hussein's regime. The film follows nine-year-old Lamia (Baneen Ahmad Nayyef), who is tasked with baking a cake for Saddam's birthday, a national obligation that becomes a symbol of the broader societal pressures faced by ordinary citizens amid economic sanctions. Accompanied by her grandmother Bibi (Waheed Thabet Khreibat) and classmate Saeed (Sajad Mohamad Qasem), Lamia embarks on a desperate quest for ingredients in a city rife with challenges.

'The President's Cake' review

Set against the backdrop of the United Nations sanctions imposed after Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in 1990, the film reflects the harsh realities of life under dictatorship. Hadi emphasizes that moments of joy coexist with fear, illustrating how children adapt to their circumstances. The film's narrative is rooted in Hadi's own childhood experiences, aiming to present a nuanced view of life during this tumultuous period rather than a mere political indictment.

The Irish Times

The relationship between Lamia and Saeed embodies the classic dynamic of the principled girl and the streetwise boy, revitalized through Hadi's meticulous observation of their struggles. Their journey is marked by encounters with various characters, including a grocer and a postman, which highlight the complexities of human interactions in a repressive society. The film captures the innocence of childhood while exposing the grim realities of their environment, where compliance with the regime is normalized.

New Yorker

Hadi's commitment to authenticity led him to shoot entirely within Iraq, despite logistical challenges. The film employs a neorealist style, with a focus on texture and the physical world, drawing comparisons to the works of American director Joseph Losey. The cinematography by Tudor Vladimir Panduru enhances the film's emotional depth, capturing the stark contrasts between the children's innocence and the oppressive atmosphere surrounding them.

The Irish Times

"The President's Cake" premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, where it won the Caméra d’Or for best first feature and the audience award in the Directors’ Fortnight section. Critics have praised the film for its humanistic warmth and the performances of its non-professional cast, despite some concerns about its portrayal of societal brutality. The film has been recognized as Iraq’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 98th Academy Awards, marking a significant achievement for Iraqi cinema.

The Irish Times

Hasan Hadi has articulated that the film is not merely a political statement but a reflection of lived experiences. He notes, “Life under dictatorship is like that. Moments of joy coexist with fear and sudden danger. People adapt, they cope, they laugh, until something happens and everything becomes very real again.” This sentiment underscores the film's intent to resonate on a human level, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries.

The Irish Times

While many reviews commend the film's emotional resonance and technical execution, some critics argue that it leans towards a portrayal of misery that may overshadow moments of humanity. Concerns have been raised about the limited representation of other children in the narrative, questioning why Lamia and Saeed's experiences diverge from those of their peers who seemingly embrace state rituals.

'The President's Cake' review

"The President's Cake" stands as a poignant exploration of childhood resilience amid the harsh realities of dictatorship. Through its blend of personal narrative and broader societal commentary, the film invites audiences to reflect on the enduring spirit of those who navigate life under oppressive regimes. As it continues to gain international recognition, it serves as a vital contribution to the discourse on Iraqi cinema and the complexities of its history.

The Irish Times