There is a certain magic in turning historical weight into childhood wonder. Director Hasan Hadi has delivered just such a story with his debut film, The President’s Cake, a fable that cleverly balances the innocent pursuit of a birthday treat with the stark realities of the world outside the kitchen.
Set against the backdrop of the 1990s, the film invites us into the world of nine-year-old Lamia, whose quest for ingredients leads her on an unexpected city odyssey. What begins as a sweet domestic adventure quickly takes on deeper urgency as Lamia navigates the complexities imposed by international sanctions.
Lamia’s mission is simple: prepare a cake for Saddam Hussein’s birthday. But this seemingly trivial task becomes a powerful metaphor for the struggles of those living under restrictive conditions. Accompanied by her friend Saeed and their spirited pet cockerel, Hindi—who somehow manages to deliver his own witty dialogue—Lamia embarks on a journey that reveals both the tenderness of childhood relationships and the intense pressures facing their community.
Beneath the surface of this charming narrative, a more profound emotional thread runs: the desperate search for family. The story is not just about baking; it is about resilience, shown through Lamia’s grandmother, who fights with authorities in a determined effort to locate her missing grandchild. This subplot injects a powerful sense of urgency, reminding the audience that even amidst political turmoil, the fundamental human desire for connection remains paramount.
Hadi spoke openly about the inspiration behind the film, noting that one of his primary intentions was to conquer the fear surrounding filmmaking in Iraq. He expressed genuine gratitude for the amazing team who supported him through this ambitious project, highlighting how collaborative effort can transform difficult realities into compelling art.
The final result is a richly layered piece of cinema—a sweet, whimsical fable that uses the simple act of making a cake to explore themes of innocence, historical context, and the enduring fight for love and family.
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Credit: Eye For Film
