Deserter

This documentary offers a rare and intimate look at the lives of Iraqi soldiers who chose to desert during the Iran-Iraq War. Through interviews and archival footage, it explores their motivations, experiences, and the harsh realities they faced both during and after their desertion. The film delves into the complex political and personal circumstances that led these men to abandon their posts, highlighting the human cost of conflict and the difficult choices individuals make in wartime.

Abbas Fahdel's 'Deserter' is a powerful and haunting documentary that has been praised for its raw honesty and unflinching portrayal of the human experience within the context of war. Critics lauded its ability to provide a voice to those on the fringes of conflict, offering a perspective rarely seen in mainstream war narratives. The film’s strength lies in its intimate interviews and the stark reality it presents, making it a significant contribution to understanding the personal impact of the Iran-Iraq War.

• A deeply moving and humanistic look at soldiers forced into difficult choices.

• Provides a rare and often overlooked perspective on the Iran-Iraq War.

• Praised for its courageous interviews and unflinching portrayal of desertion.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's profound emotional impact and its success in humanizing soldiers who deserted. Many found the personal stories compelling and eye-opening, appreciating the documentary's direct approach to a sensitive subject.

Director Abbas Fahdel conducted interviews with the deserters over several years, meticulously building trust to encourage them to share their stories.