Return to Kirkuk: A Year in the Fire

This documentary follows Karzan Sherabayani, who, after 25 years in exile, returns to Kirkuk, Iraq, to participate in the country's first democratic election. Having been arrested and tortured as a teenager by Saddam Hussein's regime, Karzan’s journey is deeply personal. He engages with the local people to understand their views on democracy and the potential for civil conflict amid the backdrop of Iraq's rich oil resources.

Kirkuk serves as a focal point for examining the broader issues facing Iraq as old sectarian tensions resurface. The film presents a nuanced portrait of a city that embodies the struggles and hopes of a nation in transition. As Karzan confronts his past, he also sheds light on the heroes and villains influencing Iraq's uncertain future. This documentary is a significant exploration of identity, politics, and the quest for peace in a divided society.