Kurdish-produced Arabic film in Erbil eyes global reach

Rudaw Net

26-03-2025

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ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Nadam, Arabic for 'regret,' is a new film produced by Kurdish filmmakers in Erbil province, starring A-list Iraqi actors. The movie follows the story of a young child who defies cultural constraints to pursue their dream of becoming an artist.
Written and directed by Rega Barzanji and produced by CC Film Production, the film was shot in the Kurdistan Region capital over 28 days.
Barzanji told Rudaw this is the first time in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, that a group of Kurdish youth has produced an Arabic cinema film to international standards. He emphasized that the Iraqi actors involved in the film are well-known A-listers, not only in Iraq but across the Arab world.
The film falls into the drama, family, and adventure genres, unfolding over three different time periods. It centers on Noor, the daughter of an Arab tailor, who refuses to follow in his father's footsteps. Despite his family's rejection of his artistic aspirations, Noor creates a film using modest resources and the support of his friends, ultimately entering a film competition. She disguises herself as a boy and only reveals her true identity when she is awarded.
Barzanji explained that the movie carries powerful messages, encouraging viewers to chase their dreams even in the face of adversity.
Shot using the high-end Arri Alexa 35 digital cinema camera and Arri Master Anamorphic lenses - the same equipment used in international blockbusters like Dunkirk and Interstellar - the film marks the first time such advanced equipment has been used in Iraq, according to Barzanji.
The Kurdish director expressed pride that the film producers and 95 percent of the production staff were Kurdish. He added that skilled cinema professionals were also brought in from Iraq, as well as Bosnia, India, Iran, Lebanon and Turkey.
The film saw the participation of Bosnian Director of Photography, Mirsad Herovic, renowned for his work on several international films.
The production crew, including those responsible for sound and post-production, hailed from Turkey, with the film's score and soundtrack also produced there.
Nadam will premiere in theaters across the Kurdistan Region, Iraq, and Arab countries on April 17. The producers are also planning international screenings and a digital release.