The President’s Cake: A Story of Resilience and Resourcefulness
Film Acquisition and Premiere
Films Boutique has successfully secured distribution rights for Hasan Hadi’s debut feature film, The President’s Cake, in key markets. As the film gears up for its world premiere at the prestigious Directors’ Fortnight at the Cannes Film Festival, it has garnered attention from distributors in France (Tandem) and Benelux (September Film).
Synopsis
Set against the backdrop of 1990s Iraq, The President’s Cake narrates the struggles of a nation grappling with food shortages. At the heart of the story lies the requirement imposed by Saddam Hussein for every school to create a cake for his birthday. Nine-year-old Lamia, determined to escape selection, finds herself chosen and must use her ingenuity to gather the necessary ingredients, facing dire consequences if she fails.
Filming and Cast
The film was shot entirely on location in Iraq, featuring a cast of local non-actors including Baneen Ahmad Nayyef, Sajad Mohamad Qasem, Waheed Thabet Khreibat, and Rahim AlHaj, adding authenticity to the narrative.
Director’s Background
Hasan Hadi, who hails from southern Iraq, brings a personal touch to the film, having experienced the harsh realities of wartime. His career spans journalism, film production, and educating future filmmakers at NYU’s Graduate Film Program. Hadi is a distinguished 2022 Sundance Institute Feature Film Fellow and has received various awards, including the 2022 Sundance Institute/NHK Award.
Production Team
The film is produced by Leah Chen Baker, an acclaimed producer known for her work on Jamie Dack’s Palm Trees and Power Lines, which won the U.S. Dramatic Directing Award at Sundance 2022. Executive producers include notable figures like Oscar-winning screenwriter Eric Roth and director Marielle Heller. The project is produced in collaboration with Missing Piece Films, Working Barn Productions, Maiden Voyage Films, and Spark Features.
Creative Contributors
Director of photography Tudor Vladimir Panduru, recognized for his work with Palme d’Or winner Cristian Mungiu, and editor Andu Radu play pivotal roles in shaping the film’s visual storytelling.
Films Boutique’s Lineup
In addition to The President’s Cake, Films Boutique showcases a diverse lineup that includes Ira Sachs’ Peter Hujar’s Day, Georgi M. Unkovski’s DJ Ahmet, and Milko Lazarov’s Tarika, featured in the Cannes Ecrans Junior segment. The company is also hosting market screenings for Girls on Wire by Vivian Qu and Where the Wind Comes From by Amel Guellaty, both previously presented at Sundance.