Iranian Short Film "Bent al-Hoor" Shines at Iraq’s International Festival

Iranian Short Film "Bent al-Hoor" Shines at Iraq’s International Festival

Ameneh Naseri’s environmental short captures the struggles of Khuzestan’s marshland communities and won two major awards in Iraq.

The short film “Bent al-Hoor” (Daughter of the Hoor), directed by Ameneh Naseri, has earned international acclaim at the International Film Festival in Iraq. The film highlights the environmental crises affecting residents of the Hawr al-Azim (Hoor al-Azim) wetland in Khuzestan.

Focusing on the story of a young girl whose life is endangered by ecological challenges, Bent al-Hoor competed among 23 selected films and won Best Director and Best Editing awards.

This international recognition not only marks a milestone for regional short cinema but also emphasizes the critical environmental issues of Khuzestan and the Hawr al-Azim wetland, drawing global attention through the lens of art. The success underscores the power of cinematic storytelling in raising awareness alongside practical initiatives, such as flare collection and water rights advocacy in the province.