The Pillar

Documentary Fiction :

This documentary film focuses on the Iraqi city of Khanaqin, a living model of peaceful coexistence where Kurds, Arabs, and Turkmens reside side by side. Every year, the Shia Muslim community in the city commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain in an atmosphere that reflects this rich social fabric.

This year, a 74-year-old man, who formerly worked as a cinema projectionist, wages a heartfelt battle to convince the cinema’s owner not to demolish the historic building and turn it into a modern commercial market. Driven by pure passion and loyalty to the city’s cultural memory, he resorts to various means and relentless attempts to save this ancient landmark.

Despite the immense challenges and the severe physical exhaustion he faces due to his physical disability, his determination never wavers. Ultimately, the elderly man succeeds in his mission, successfully preventing the demolition of the cinema, which is recognized as the second oldest movie theater in Iraq—thereby preserving a vital cultural and historical monument that stands as a witness to the city’s true identity.