Watch Iraqi Odyssey

Iraqi Odyssey is a documentary film from 2014 that follows the lives of an Iraqi family across three continents and over 100 years. The story begins in modern-day Iraq and takes viewers on a journey through the country's tumultuous history, including colonial occupation, dictatorship, and multiple wars. Along the way, the film explores themes of identity, exile, and the meaning of home.

The film is directed by Samir, a Swiss-Iraqi filmmaker who is also a member of the family featured in the film. As such, the film has a deeply personal, autobiographical feel to it. Samir's relatives, including his aunts, uncles, and cousins, are the film's main subjects. We learn about their lives, their memories of Iraq, and their experiences as immigrants in other countries.

One of the most striking aspects of Iraqi Odyssey is its use of archival footage, photographs, and family home videos. The film seamlessly weaves together these different types of media, creating a rich tapestry of images that highlight the family's journey. The footage includes scenes of Iraq's natural beauty, as well as historic events such as the first Gulf War and the fall of Saddam Hussein.

Another key component of the film is its exploration of the idea of identity. As the family members move from country to country, they are forced to confront their own sense of self and their connection to their homeland. Some of the family members feel a strong attachment to Iraq, while others feel more disconnected from the country due to their experiences living abroad. The film never imposes a particular narrative or opinion on the viewer, allowing us to draw our own conclusions about what it means to be Iraqi.

Despite its serious subject matter, the film is not without humor and warmth. We see the family members joking around and reminiscing about their childhoods. Some scenes, such as a family dinner where everyone is talking over each other, feel truly authentic and lively. The film also highlights the family's resilience and perseverance in the face of difficult circumstances.

While the film focuses on the experiences of one family, it also offers a broader perspective on the history and culture of Iraq. Through interviews with experts and academics, we learn about the country's rich cultural heritage, as well as its struggles with colonialism and dictatorship. The film gives voice to a variety of perspectives and opinions, providing a nuanced and complex portrayal of a country that is often reduced to simplistic stereotypes in Western media.

Overall, Iraqi Odyssey is a powerful and moving film that offers a rare glimpse into the lives of Iraqi immigrants. Through its exploration of history, identity, and family, the film reminds us of the human stories that lie behind political and social upheaval. It is a beautiful tribute to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Iraqi Odyssey is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 2 hours and 42 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5 and a MetaScore of 60.