The Lions by the River: Restoring Mosul After ISIL

Nearly a decade after the battle to liberate Mosul from ISIL, the ancient Iraqi city is slowly rebuilding its identity from the ruins. In the heart of the war-ravaged urban landscape, two carved lions stand as a fragile link to the past, reminding residents of an 8,000-year history that survived years of devastation. The struggle to reclaim and protect these remnants of antiquity forms the core of a new documentary film titled The Lions by the River, directed by Zaradasht Ahmed.

Bashar, a local fisherman, lost his once-grand family home during the fierce fighting that freed the city. Today, all that remains of his property is a marble gate crowned with stone lions, which he now fiercely guards against further loss. His efforts intersect with those of Fakhri, a dedicated collector who is obsessed with acquiring the historical gate for an unofficial museum he hopes will save Mosul’s endangered heritage.

Lions River Heritage

Fakhri's ambitious plans are challenged by his friend Fadil, a musician who was silenced during the strict rule of ISIL. Fadil continually reminds the collector of the heavy human cost behind every rescued artefact, emphasizing that the city's living residents suffered just as much as its ancient monuments. As these individuals navigate their contrasting approaches to preservation, a quiet cultural revival begins to emerge across Mosul.

Three men strive to revive Mosul's cultural heritage following its devastation and liberation from ISIL.

This unfolding narrative highlights the deep resilience of a community determined to heal. Through the preservation of historical artifacts and the persistence of its people, the city on the Tigris is slowly finding its voice again.

Why it matters

The cultural revival in Mosul demonstrates how communities rebuild their identity after severe conflict. While the events take place in Iraq, the documentary highlights the universal human effort to reclaim history and humanity after destruction.