By Karrar Al-Azzawi

Baghdad on Fire

This film portrays Tiba’s compelling journey as she fights for freedom and equality in post-invasion Iraq. 2022 marks the 20th anniversary of the US-led invasion, and on October 1st, thousands gather in Baghdad’s Tahrir Square to commemorate the youth demonstrations against chaos, corruption, and conflict. Tiba, a 19-year-old, stands among them. In a society with strict gender separation, men and women unite to demand change, tired of militias, corrupt politicians, and foreign interference. Tiba joins her friends Yousif and Khader to form a medical team, spending days and nights at Tahrir Square. They laugh, cry, and face danger, embodying the spirit of Iraqi youth and women. Despite trauma and depression, Tiba, a leader in the 2019 demonstrations, continues to fight for a new Iraq and her dreams of education and independence. The film traces her transformation from forced marriage and abuse to her pursuit of a better future and democracy. Will she succeed?

Country : Iraq
Original language : Arabic
Subtopics : Social justice, Gender equality
Director
Karrar Al-Azzawi (Iraq)
Producers
Jørgen Lorentzen (Norway)
Kim Christiansen (Sales agent – DR Sales)
Integral film
Impact Producer
Abeer Bayazidi (Jordan)
Duration
60' / 52'
Production status
Completed
Completion
July 2023
Impact Statement
This is a character-driven film following a young woman taking part in the democracy movement in Iraq and her growth from early marriage, violence and divorce into a young woman taking leadership in the demonstrations for a better future. We want to convey the truth about the hope of young people in Iraq and show it to both the huge number of youths in the Middle East and to the adults. The film portrays the protagonists' strength and resilience, offering hope to those facing adversity. In collaboration with NGOs, it focuses on early marriage, gender equality, and democracy, highlighting young men and women's joint efforts for change. We want to approach politicians, youths, change-makers and participate in educational programs.