Hafar Al-Batin

The story revolves around Iraqi army men who, following a historic struggle with the occupying forces, were buried alive in their shelters in the Hafar al-Batin border area by huge bulldozers. Filming began in the spring of 2000, with the city of Habbaniyah selected as the primary shooting location. The film is considered the first Iraqi feature to address the Second Gulf War and involved Iraqi actors alongside Iraqi military units. Approximately 50 actors and 200 military personnel participated in the production. It is believed that the film’s original title was The Longest Day in History before settling on its final name. The film was not permitted to be screened, similar to another Iraqi film, The Countdown. It was reportedly banned because it did not meet the approval of Iraqi President Saddam Hussein.

Directed by Abdul Salam Al Azmy, Hafar Al-Batin leans on a strong ensemble — Zahraa Al Rabee, Hanaa Abdulqader, Ricardos Yousef — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 1999.