"Baghdad Messi" shines at Arab film festivals

Kurdish director Sahim Omar Khalifa's film, which tells the inspiring story of a young Iraqi boy's unwavering dream to become a professional footballer despite facing adversity, has been lauded for its poignant portrayal of Iraqi reality.

Baghdad Messi official poster. (Photo: Kurdistan24)
Baghdad Messi official poster. (Photo: Kurdistan24)

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - A Kurdish director's heartfelt Iraqi drama, "Baghdad Messi," has continued its triumphant run on the international film festival circuit, securing two prestigious awards at Arab festivals.

Kurdish director Sahim Omar Khalifa's film, which tells the inspiring story of a young Iraqi boy's unwavering dream to become a professional footballer despite facing adversity, has been lauded for its poignant portrayal of Iraqi reality.

At the12th Oran International Arabic Film Festival, held in Algeria, "Baghdad Messi" clinched the bronze award in the main competition section. The film, which competed against 60 other films, resonated with audiences and judges alike.

Prior to its success in Algeria, "Baghdad Messi" had already garnered recognition at the 5th Casablanca Arab Film Festival in Morocco, where it was awarded the Best Screenplay prize.

The film's recent accolades add to its growing list of accomplishments. In August, "Baghdad Messi" was selected to represent Iraq at the 2025 Academy Awards, a testament to its quality and global appeal.

Khalifa, a native of Zakho who now resides in Belgium, has been honored for his work, receiving the Special Award of the Zakho Independent Administration in September.

"Baghdad Messi" has not only captivated audiences with its moving narrative but has also showcased Iraqi cinema on a global stage. The film's success is a testament to the talent and creativity of Kurdish filmmakers and the power of storytelling to transcend cultural boundaries.