The second Baghdad Film Festival, held from September 15-21, 2025, honored Tunisian cinema as its distinguished guest of honor, fostering a significant cultural exchange and artistic recognition.
Under the theme “Baghdad: Capital of Arab Tourism 2025,” the festival showcased the breadth of Tunisian cinematic achievements. Hind Meddeb's documentary "Soudan ya Ghali" received the Best Documentary award, and Sahar Achi's short film "Al Hafa" earned the Jury Prize in its category. These accolades highlight the talent within Tunisia's film industry.
Organized by the Iraqi Artists Syndicate, the festival featured a curated selection of Tunisian films, ranging from contemporary works to historical pieces, allowing Iraqi audiences to engage with Tunisian storytelling. The event also included intellectual gatherings and discussions where Tunisian, Iraqi, and other Arab filmmakers explored the evolution and impact of Tunisian cinema.
The festival received a total of 423 submissions, selecting 67 films across various genres, including features, documentaries, and animations, representing the diverse creative output from the Arab world. Tunisia's prominent role as guest of honor was central to the festival's mission of promoting cinematic culture and supporting filmmakers.
This event underscores Baghdad's ongoing cultural renaissance and its role as a hub for artistic expression and intercultural dialogue. The recognition of Tunisian cinema also reflects the dynamic growth and international acclaim of Tunisia's film industry, particularly in the post-2011 era, which has nurtured a new generation of filmmakers with global resonance.