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HBO
When you were first approached with the idea
of videotaping your life in Baghdad, what were
your feelings?
Ali
Well, it was exciting because it was something
new for me. It was really fun. And having my
friends with me, it was something fun that we
could do together. I also felt a responsibility
because there are a lot of people who don't
know anything about life in Iraq.
HBO
You and your friends in the film all come from
different religious backgrounds, but it doesn't
seem like there are differences between you.
Ali
That's because for many years there was no
difference between people in Iraq. The
conflicts are political, and that's what makes
for differences. I have lots of friends from
different religions and it doesn't matter,
because we are all humans, we are all Iraqis,
so we have to be united.
HBO
What kind of similarities and differences do
you see between yourself and American kids
your age?
Ali
I see a lot of similarities, because we all have
the same interests, we all listen to the same
music, watch the same movies, because we
are human. And the internet makes it more
similar between the east and west.
HBO
Now that you and your family are living in the
U.S., what are your plans for the future?
Ali
I would like to be an engineer, because you
have to be artistic to be an engineer, so that's
part of it. I've been painting since I was a
little child. So, it's like a habit for me.
HBO
Is there anything you'd like to say to the
people who will be watching this film about
who you are, where you've been, and what
you hope for the future?
Ali
They called Baghdad "Peace City" but now it's
the most dangerous city in the world. So I
hope that it's going to be Peace City again.
'Baghdad High' Companion Study Guide from the Tribeca Film Institute
Want to bring 'Baghdad High' into your classroom? Download the Baghdad High study guide for discussion questions, suggestions for reading, and background information on Iraq.
Want to bring 'Baghdad High' into your classroom? Download the Baghdad High study guide for discussion questions, suggestions for reading, and background information on Iraq.
