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Why Iraq War ‘Deserves Reexamining’: Atropia’s Alia Shawkat, Hailey Gates

Why Iraq War ‘Deserves Reexamining’: Atropia’s Alia Shawkat, Hailey Gates

Summary

The film "Atropia" explores themes related to the Iraq War using satire. Directed by Hailey Gates and starring Alia Shawkat, the movie focuses on military training camps in the U.S. that simulate war zones. The movie premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival and aims to make people think about the Iraq War and its lasting effects.

Key Facts

  • "Atropia" is a movie that uses satire to explore the Iraq War and its impact.
  • Hailey Gates directed and wrote the film, which stars Alia Shawkat.
  • It premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival and won the Grand Jury Prize.
  • The movie is set in military training camps in the U.S. that mimic war zones.
  • The film switches between English and Arabic to reflect the reality of these simulations.
  • The Iraq War, from 2003 to 2011, led to the overthrow of Saddam Hussein.
  • The movie examines issues like the military complex, nationalism, and patriotism.
  • Gates and Shawkat discuss the importance of reflecting on Bush-era politics and the war on terror.

Source Information