Filming Conditions in Iraq

On Set

Despite having filming permits, we had to negotiate with people before the scene. The Iraqi assistant director and fixer handled the negotiations, or in more difficult cases, our Iraqi producer Mohammed stepped in.

However, traffic was our main enemy. Depending on the traffic situation, protagonists were delayed by hours, making it nearly impossible to film at more than one location per day.

 

Don’t Cross Red Lines

Equally important was the constant update on the security situation. We had to keep track of power struggles within the government, shifting socio-political discussions surrounding the “October Revolution,” and also the families and tribes of the female protagonists. Together with the protagonists, assistant directors, and especially the Iraqi producer, we continuously reassessed what could be said in the film and what should be avoided.

It was crucial not to cross “red lines” that could later endanger the Iraqi crew or the protagonists. The government wasn’t a threat to us; after all, we had their filming approval. The real danger came from non-governmental groups that act independently of the government.