The Belgian co-production 'Baghdad Messi', directed by Sahim Omar Kalifa, is the Iraqi entry for the Oscars 2025. After success at 30 festivals, including the Ostend Film Festival where it premiered, the film is in the running for a nomination in the category 'best international film'. The final selection will be announced on 17 January. Kalifa, who previously reached the shortlist with 'Bad Hunter' and the short film 'Baghdad Messi', hopes to be nominated for the third time and emphasises the important role of football in the war drama.

read more (vertigoweb) »