The President’s Cake: A Unique Look at Iraqi History Through Film
Iraqi writer and director Hasan Hadi explores the complexities of life under Saddam Hussein’s regime in his debut feature film, The President’s Cake. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of Lamia, a 9-year-old girl, as she navigates the challenging landscape of 1990s Iraq.
Premise of the Film
Set against the backdrop of war and food shortages, the film captures the mandatory school celebration of Saddam Hussein’s birthday. Each school is required to prepare a celebratory cake, and Lamia finds herself reluctantly chosen to oversee this task. The story encapsulates her imaginative journey to gather the necessary ingredients while highlighting the everyday struggles faced by Iraqi families during this tumultuous period.
Film Premiere and Reception
The President’s Cake made its premiere at the Cannes Directors’ Fortnight on May 16. As it seeks international distributors, the film has already garnered interest from various segments of the film community. IndieWire has shared a promotional clip, showcasing the film’s distinct voice and authentic storytelling.
Storyline and Background
The plot unfolds during a time of significant hardship in Iraq, as citizens attempt to survive under Hussein’s oppressive regime. Lamia’s experiences are rooted in Hadi’s own childhood memories of Iraq, where whimsical school traditions were laced with a grim reality. He recalls how students had to participate in this ritual, often facing unique challenges shaped by corruption and socioeconomic barriers.
Creative Insights from Hasan Hadi
Hadi emphasizes the importance of authenticity in portraying this historical period, stressing that locations used in the film were chosen to mirror true historical contexts. He remarked, “This is the first Iraqi film to tackle this historical period. It was crucial to make the 1990s look authentic and realistic.”
Executive Producers’ Praise
The film boasts notable executive producers, including Eric Roth, known for his work on Forrest Gump, and Marielle Heller of The Diary of a Teenage Girl. Both praised the film’s execution. Roth stated, “I thought it was flawless! More than I could have imagined it would be… It reminded me of the great Indian filmmaker Satyajit Ray’s films.” Heller echoed his sentiments, declaring it “a masterpiece.”
Hadi’s Vision and Authenticity
Hadi’s previous experience as a journalist and educator informs his artistic vision. He shared his desire to focus on the human side of the story rather than turning it into a political discourse. “I’m interested in genuine human emotions, struggles, connections, and stories,” he explained. Despite the film’s political backdrop, Hadi aimed to present authentic characters navigating their world, significantly underrepresented in film.
Watch the Trailer
Interested viewers can experience a glimpse of The President’s Cake by watching a clip from its premiere during the Cannes festival. Follow the link below:
Distribution and Future Prospects
The film is currently being handled for sales by UTA and WME for North America, while Films Boutique oversees international sales. As the film appeals to a global audience, it reflects not only personal narratives but also offers an important commentary on a crucial time in Iraq’s history.