Iraqi Director Hasan Hadi Wins Prestigious Audience Award

Iraqi filmmaker Hasan Hadi has been honored with the People’s Choice audience award at the second edition of the Cannes Directors’ Fortnight for his debut feature, The President’s Cake. This accolade, the only audience-voted prize within the Cannes Official Selection and its parallel sections, signifies a significant milestone for Hadi and a momentous occasion for Iraqi cinema.

Drawing from Personal Experience

Based in New York, Hadi channels his childhood memories of growing up in southern Iraq during the 1990s, under the oppressive regime of Saddam Hussein and the severe conditions imposed by international sanctions. His film narrates the poignant tale of Lamia, a nine-year-old girl on a mission to deliver a birthday cake to her school in honor of the president’s birthday. What appears to be a simple task transforms into a harrowing struggle for survival amid extreme scarcity, with dire consequences looming for her and her family if she fails.

Production and Distribution Details

Produced by Leah Chen Baker under the New York-based company TPC Film LLC, The President’s Cake is currently being marketed internationally by Films Boutique, while UTA oversees its distribution in North America.

A Unique Awarding Process

The Directors’ Fortnight, a renowned section of the Cannes Film Festival celebrated for its commitment to bold and independent filmmaking, employs a distinctive approach by not utilizing a traditional jury system. Instead, the People’s Choice award, which includes a €7,500 ($8,400) cash prize, is determined solely by audience votes. This award was established last year in collaboration with the Chantal Akerman Foundation to honor the legacy of the late Belgian filmmaker, whose groundbreaking works, such as Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles, resonate deeply with the spirit of the Fortnight.