The 12th Duhok International Film Festival opens on December 9, 2025, with a focus on raising awareness about climate change. Organizers chose the theme “Drought” to highlight the growing global threat of water scarcity. Festival president Amir Ali said cinema can educate the public and officials about protecting water resources. He emphasized that films this year prioritize meaningful messages over celebrity appearances.
Spain hosts the festival, which runs until December 16. The opening film, My Uncle Jens, is directed by East Kurdistan filmmaker Brwa Wahabpour. The comedy-drama follows Akam, a young teacher in Oslo, whose life is disrupted by his uncle’s unexpected visit.
The festival will screen 110 films from 37 countries, including 45 Kurdish productions and 65 international entries. This wide selection ensures audiences explore diverse perspectives and storytelling styles. Additionally, Vadat Yıldırım from North Kurdistan will perform at the opening ceremony, blending Kurdish, Turkish, Armenian, and Arabic melodies to enrich the event.
Several juries will evaluate the films. French producer Jamila Laimle leads the Kurdish Cinema Committee. Turkish director and academic Dilik Takmci chairs the World Cinema Committee. German director Christoph Gampel from the Goethe Institute in Iraq leads the Short Film Committee. These committees will judge films carefully, highlighting the best productions.
For the sixth year, the Nowhat Project will provide workshops and financial support for young filmmakers. This initiative encourages emerging talent and strengthens the region’s cinema industry. The festival aims not only to entertain but also to inspire viewers to act on environmental issues. Organizers hope that screenings, panels, and workshops will create a lasting impact while continuing the tradition of Kurdish cinema.
Overall, the 12th Duhok International Film Festival uses the power of cinema for raising awareness about climate change, engaging international audiences, and nurturing future filmmakers. While presenting impactful films and fostering discussions, the festival reinforces its mission of raising awareness about climate change across the region.
