# The Unlikely Star: A Director's Journey with Non-Actor Children in Baghdad

In the heart of Baghdad, a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture, a young director named Hasan Hadi is making waves in the film industry. With his latest movie, Hadi has taken a bold approach to casting by featuring non-actor children as the stars of the show. But what inspired him to take this unconventional route?

The Making of "Because I Know the Rooster"

As reported in various news outlets, Hadi's decision to cast non-actors was not taken lightly. In an interview with a Baghdad-based publication, he revealed that his journey began when he encountered a group of children who would often gather around him during film sets.

"These kids were the stars of my life," said Hadi, recalling the memories of watching them grow and develop their skills. "I realized that they had so much more to offer than just being extras."

Hadi's fascination with these young actors led him to start training them in acting techniques, which eventually blossomed into a full-fledged film project.

The Benefits of Casting Non-Actor Children

So, what makes casting non-actor children an attractive option for filmmakers? Here are some benefits that Hadi and his team discovered:

• Authenticity: Working with non-actors brings a sense of authenticity to the film. The children's reactions, emotions, and interactions with each other add a layer of realism that would be difficult to replicate with trained actors.
• Creativity: Non-actor children often bring their own unique experiences and perspectives to the role, which can lead to creative and innovative storytelling.
• Cost-effectiveness: Casting non-actors eliminates the need for expensive acting talent, allowing filmmakers to allocate more resources to other aspects of production.

The Challenges of Working with Non-Actor Children

While working with non-actor children offers many benefits, it also comes with its own set of challenges. Some of these include:

• Technical difficulties: Ensuring that the children are comfortable and focused during filming can be a logistical challenge.
• Emotional demands: Acting requires emotional labor, which can be draining for young actors who may not have the necessary training or experience.
• Parental involvement: Filmmakers must navigate complex relationships with parents, guardians, and caregivers to ensure that their children are treated fairly and with respect.

Hasan Hadi's Vision

As a director, Hadi has always prioritized his vision over commercial viability. With "Because I Know the Rooster," he aims to create a film that showcases the talents of these young actors while promoting positive messages about childhood and creativity.

"I believe in the power of children to shape our world," said Hadi. "By giving them a platform to express themselves, we can inspire the next generation of artists, writers, and leaders."

The Future of Children's Film

The success of "Because I Know the Rooster" has sparked interest in using non-actor children as stars in future films. As filmmakers continue to explore innovative casting strategies, it will be essential to prioritize the well-being and development of these young actors.

With the right support, resources, and creative direction, non-actor children can become powerful agents for change on screen and off.