Q&A with director Lucian Read to follow the screening of Lions of Mesopotamia
Saturday, October 26 at 8:00 PM at the Film Society Bourse
LUCIAN READ | IRAQ, USA | 2024 | 86 MIN | ARABIC, ENGLISH
This high-octane sports documentary follows the harrowing journey of the Iraqi National Football Team as the players embark on their most daunting challenge yet: competing for the 2007 AFC Asian Cup amid the Iraq War. Juxtaposing haunting images of bloodshed with snapshots celebrating the glory of their on-the-field victories, the story of this formidable team captures it all. The Sunni, Shia, and Kurdish players share gut-wrenching anecdotes of their struggles and triumphs, unpacking their obstacles on the field and the horrors of the crumbling infrastructure back home. Refusing to hold any punches, the team reflects on America’s role in Iraq’s collapse and how they approached every match with unwavering willpower. The fractured state of their nation serves as a source of strength as they reach the finale: a climactic duel with Saudi Arabia for the Asian Cup title, which became a test of resilience as well as a chance to bring back honor to their homeland.
All sales are final. Admission is not guaranteed after scheduled start time.
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