Afghan-Canadian Filmmaker Wins Big at Welsh LGBTQ+ Film Festival

The Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival, held in Cardiff, Wales, has awarded its top honor to a film about a first-generation Afghan Canadian man. The winning film, 'One Day This Kid', was created by Alexander Farah, an Afghan-Canadian filmmaker. The story centers on Hamed, who is trying to build his own identity while always feeling the presence and expectations of his father. According to the judges, the film explores Hamed's journey as he tries to understand himself and his place in the world, especially as someone who is part of the LGBTQ+ community.

The Iris Prize is a well-known award that celebrates stories from around the globe, focusing on LGBTQ+ themes. The winner receives £40,000 to make a new film in the UK that continues to explore LGBTQ+ topics. The festival is an annual event and works with organizations like BAFTA Cymru and Pride Cymru. This year marked the 19th edition of the festival, which lasted for seven days and attracted 11,000 admissions. The event is recognized for bringing together filmmakers and audiences to share diverse stories and experiences.

Tom Paul Martin, the chairman for the 2025 Iris Prize, said that Hamed's story resonated with everyone involved and will likely connect with audiences worldwide. He explained that the film's themes, such as feeling queer before having the words to describe it and wanting to bring together different parts of one's identity, are universal. Berwyn Rowlands, the festival director, described 'One Day This Kid' as an emotional journey and a delightful piece of cinema. The film weaves together moments from Hamed's life, showing his growth from a young boy to a mature adult. The festival continues to highlight important stories and voices from the LGBTQ+ community, making it a significant event in the world of film.