In a poignant blend of humour and heartbreak, *The President’s Cake* takes audiences on a journey through the eyes of a young girl in 1990s Iraq, navigating the harsh realities of life under Saddam Hussein’s oppressive regime. Directed by Hasan Hadi, this unique film not only tells a story of innocence amidst turmoil but also marks a significant milestone as the first Iraqi film to make the Oscars shortlist for Best International Feature.
A Childhood Steeped in Fear
Growing up in Iraq during the 1990s, Hasan Hadi experienced a childhood devoid of the freedom to explore the world through cinema. With no theatres available, he discovered his passion for film through the clandestine distribution of foreign VHS tapes. “As a kid, no one would suspect me of smuggling,” Hadi recalls, smiling at the memory of sneaking tapes under his shirt. Films ranging from Bruce Lee action flicks to the art of Tarkovsky became his escape from a regime that enforced strict censorship.
Hadi vividly recalls the oppressive atmosphere of his youth, where the authorities’ response to dissent could range from imprisonment to execution. “We’re talking about a period when childhood lost its innocence,” he reflects, underscoring the pervasive fear that gripped his generation.
The Story of Lamia
*The President’s Cake* introduces us to Lamia, a nine-year-old girl portrayed by Baneen Ahmed Nayyef, who finds herself in an extraordinary predicament. Selected by chance to bake a birthday cake for Saddam Hussein, she embarks on a challenging quest for ingredients amidst the dire conditions of economic sanctions. Her journey is made all the more endearing with the presence of her pet cockerel, Hindi, who adds a light-hearted touch to their struggles.
Set against the backdrop of a regime obsessed with its own image, the film powerfully illustrates Saddam’s cult of personality, with his portraits looming large over the lives of ordinary Iraqis. Hadi notes that when Saddam was deposed in 2003, the number of his statues and images exceeded the population of the country—a chilling testament to the extent of his control.
The Harsh Realities of Sanctions
The film draws attention to the devastating impact of international sanctions on Iraqi society. As Lamia and her grandmother venture into Baghdad to procure cake ingredients, they must confront the scarcity of food and the soaring prices that come with it. Hadi recalls his own childhood experience with cake, stating, “I didn’t taste cake until I was 13 or 14. The cakes were depressing—just dates stuck together to trick kids.”
In a striking scene, Lamia’s teacher steals an apple from her schoolbag, a betrayal that resonates deeply. Hadi explains that such corruption was rampant during those times, with educators struggling to survive on meagre wages. “Sanctions are more violent than bombs,” he asserts. “The damage is not visible, but it’s deeper.”
A Vision for Iraqi Cinema
With aspirations to create more films rooted in his homeland, Hadi’s resolve is palpable. “I want to make films about Iraq. Yes,” he states, his suitcase packed for a return trip to Baghdad. He promises that his storytelling will always centre on the human experience rather than overt political agendas.
*The President’s Cake* offers a window into a world often overlooked, capturing the resilience of children in the face of adversity. The film is set to hit UK cinemas on 13 February, followed by a release in Australia on 2 April.
Why it Matters
*The President’s Cake* serves as both a tribute to the innocent joys and profound struggles of childhood during a tumultuous era and a reminder of the power of storytelling in bridging cultural divides. As viewers connect with Lamia’s plight, they bear witness to the resilience of the human spirit, making this film not just a piece of entertainment, but a significant cultural commentary on the effects of tyranny and the hope that emerges from its shadows.