Iraqi Film “Said Afendi” to Screen in Lyon Following Cannes Selection

The Embassy of the Republic of Iraq in Paris, in collaboration with the Hassan bin Al-Haitham Committee for Iraqi Visual Memory, has announced the upcoming screening of the restored version of the classic Iraqi film “Said Afendi” by director Cameron Hosny.

The screening will take place at the prestigious Lumière Institute in Lyon on Sunday, 15th June 2025, at 3:00 PM (French time), offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience a restored gem of Iraqi cinema on the big screen.

This special event follows the film’s official inclusion in the Cannes Classics programme at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, a section dedicated to celebrating restored cinematic treasures from around the world. The recognition is a significant milestone for Iraq’s film heritage and highlights the growing global interest in preserving and honouring Arab cinematic history.

The “Said Afendi” restoration was made possible through the efforts of the Hassan bin Al-Haitham Committee, a group dedicated to safeguarding and promoting Iraq’s visual memory. The screening in Lyon represents both a cultural celebration and a testament to Iraq’s contribution to regional and international cinema.

The Iraqi Embassy expressed pride in supporting this cultural initiative, reaffirming its commitment to promoting Iraq’s artistic achievements and engaging international audiences with the country’s rich cinematic legacy.

The event is expected to draw film enthusiasts, cultural figures, and members of the Iraqi and Arab diaspora in France, further cementing “Said Afendi” as a touchstone of Iraqi cinematic heritage.