KARRAR AL-AZZAWI

The Iraqi Warriors is a film about Kareem and Abduallah, football players on the Iraqi amputee football national team, after losing their legs. Following the intertwined journeys of two Iraqi young men, Kareem and Abdullah, who overcome devastating wartime injuries to pursue their passion for football. The film begins with Kareem and his comrade Salam being ambushed by a landmine while returning from a mission against ISIL in 2014. The explosion leaves Kareem without his right leg and Salam without his left. Simultaneously, the story goes back to 2005 in Basra, where a young boy Abduallah loses his leg after being shot by a British convoy.

The film shows the struggles and resilience of Kareem and Abdullah as they navigate their new realities. Kareem battles depression and self-doubt, feeling his dreams of supporting his family and playing football are shattered. Abdullah, initially confined to a wheelchair, gradually regains his independence and determination with the support of his family.

In 2022, their paths converge when both men join the newly established Iraqi national amputee football team. The film captures their rigorous training, the camaraderie among the team members, and their unwavering spirit as they prepare for the Asia Cup 2024. Following them until the end of the Asia Cup.

This film is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, highlighting the power of dreams and the strength found in unity and perseverance. This film not only portrays the personal battles and victories of Kareem and Abduallah but also serves as a broader narrative about the indomitable spirit of the Iraqi people amidst adversity and war. It is a portrait of resilience, healing, overcoming the war trauma, and finding meaning in life and team spirit.