Saddam

Saddam is an Iranian satirical comedy-drama film directed by Pedram Pouramiri. The story follows Salah Sharif, an ordinary man who, because of his uncanny resemblance to the infamous political figure Saddam Hussein, is recruited to impersonate him for a secret mission in Tehran. As he steps into this bizarre role, the film takes on an absurd and humorous tone: the mission requires him to give public speeches and organize staged events to simulate a triumphant victory for Saddam’s regime.

Alongside him is Parinaz Izadyar, who plays Soraya Sarvar, and Reza Attaran stars in the lead role as Salah. Together, they deliver a mix of comedy and satire that exposes the contradictions of politics and power. Beneath its playful surface, the film explores deeper themes such as identity, deception, and the absurd nature of political spectacle.

Although “Saddam” attracted audiences and became one of the notable titles in recent Iranian cinema, some critics felt its story was uneven and its characters underdeveloped. Still, it stands out as a bold and entertaining attempt to use humor to reflect on serious historical and cultural tensions within Iranian society.