Iranian Filmmaker Hemen Khaledi Triumphs at BIFF with Debut Documentary ‘Singing Wings’

At the recent 30th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), Iranian director Hemen Khaledi’s documentary “Singing Wings” garnered significant recognition, highlighting the film’s unique narrative and cultural significance. This award-winning documentary, produced collaboratively by Iran, Georgia, and Belgium, showcases the rich tapestry of Kurdish life and has captured the hearts of audiences and critics alike.

The festival, which took place from September 17 to 26 in South Korea, awarded “Singing Wings” the prestigious BIFF Mecenat Award. This accolade is specifically designed to honor outstanding Korean and Asian documentaries within the Wide Angle Competition. Each recipient of this award receives KRW 10,000,000 (approximately $7,100), which serves as funding for their subsequent film projects, as reported by ISNA.

Produced in 2025, “Singing Wings” unfolds over the course of 73 minutes and centers around Khadijeh, a 78-year-old Kurdish woman from Iran. In her life, she faces two significant challenges:

• Caring for a stork whose wings were injured by high-voltage wires and left behind.
• Dissuading her daughter from emigrating to the UK.

In Khadijeh’s perspective, there is no contradiction between aiding the wounded stork and trying to prevent her daughter from leaving. Yet, she recognizes that these tasks cannot be accomplished through sheer will alone, and persuading her daughter proves to be the more formidable challenge.

“Singing Wings” intricately follows Khadijeh’s daily life, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Kurdistan, a region known for being a sanctuary for storks. The documentary highlights the elderly woman’s natural humor and cheerful optimism, attributes that resonate with viewers and form the emotional core of the film.

Director Hemen Khaledi, a native of the region, intentionally opts not to focus on the hardships faced by the Kurdish people. Instead, he aims to present their pure spirit and simple way of life in the most positive light possible. The film unfolds like a fable, set within a world reminiscent of fairy tales.

To capture the essence of village life, Khaledi employs a slow-paced narrative style that mirrors the unhurried rhythm of the community he knows so well. The project description juxtaposes the enchanting beauty of Iranian Kurdistan’s villages and their tranquil natural surroundings with the personal challenges faced by the characters.

Hemen Khaledi is a talented Kurdish filmmaker hailing from Shno in Kurdistan Province. Notably, “Singing Wings” marks his debut as a feature documentary director. During its production phase, the project was honored with the Cat & Docs Award at the FIPADOC’s pitching program, further cementing its reputation.

The Busan International Film Festival is dedicated to discovering and showcasing exceptional Korean and Asian films. It plays a crucial role in presenting outstanding cinematic works to global audiences, while also reinforcing Busan’s status as a cultural hub for film and visual arts in Asia. As one of the most highly regarded film festivals in the region, BIFF significantly influences the cinematic landscape and has earned its place alongside other prestigious film festivals worldwide.

In conclusion, “Singing Wings” not only captivates with its heartfelt story and stunning visuals but also serves as a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Kurdish people, reflected through the lens of Hemen Khaledi. As the film continues to garner attention on international platforms, it reiterates the importance of storytelling in fostering understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.