I’m Migrant Film Festival Screening

The I’m Migrant Film Festival in London is set to showcase Iraqi filmmaker Koutaiba Al-Janabi’s gripping thriller, The Woodman, on Friday, February 28 at 6:45 pm. This screening presents a valuable opportunity for industry leaders to engage with compelling narratives that resonate on a global scale.

Festival Highlights

The Woodman has already made waves at several prestigious international festivals, including the Arabisches Film Festival in Berlin, the International Filmmaker Festival of New York, and the Seville Independent Film Festival, where it was honored with the Bronze Award in the Narrative Films Category. In the Arab world, it was also featured at the Abdul-Hameed Shoman Foundation in Jordan, showcasing its broad appeal and critical acclaim.

Acknowledgments and Funding

This film project has garnered significant recognition, including the Jury Prize at the Cairo Film Connection (CFC) and funding from the Doha Film Institute, underscoring the importance of financial backing in bringing impactful stories to life.

Engaging Narrative

The plot of The Woodman is a unique blend of fantasy and reality, centering around a human-sized wooden doll that is forced to flee its homeland. Throughout its journey, the doll encounters various characters, revealing the profound truths of those who are compelled to leave their homes. This narrative not only captivates audiences but also invites reflection on the broader themes of displacement and identity.

Creative Team

Written, directed, produced, and shot by Koutaiba Al-Janabi, The Woodman features performances by Hanna Heffner and Mihaly Palko. The film’s editing was expertly handled by Hugh Williams, with sound managed by Rana Eid and music composed by Nadim Mishlawi. Additionally, MAD Solutions is overseeing the film’s distribution across the Arab world, ensuring that this important story reaches a wider audience.

About Koutaiba Al-Janabi

Originating from Baghdad, Al-Janabi’s artistic journey led him to Budapest, Hungary, where he refined his skills in photography and cinematography. His diverse experience includes producing and directing various television projects. Furthermore, he has contributed to academic discourse with a PhD thesis focused on the aesthetics of Arabic cinema, demonstrating his commitment to both the art and the study of film.