Once Upon a Time in Iraq

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Factual: Politics

A closer look at the realities of war and life under Isis.

With unique personal archive from civilians and soldiers from both sides of the conflict, this series takes viewers closer to the realities of war and life under Isis than they have ever been before.

Series 1

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Andy Serkis

James Bluemel

Will Grayburn

Simon Russell

Jo Abel

Will Anderson

Andrew Palmer

KEO Films Ltd

Once Upon a Time in Iraq: Series 1: Insurgency

Insurgency

BBC Two - Once Upon a Time in Iraq, Series 1, Insurgency

Lt Colonel Nate Sassaman and Iraqi civilian Alaa Adel reflect on the Iraqi insurgency.

The Iraqi insurgency is examined through Lt Colonel Sassaman’s descent into the darkest regions of his psyche.

When Lieutenant Colonel Nate Sassaman arrived in Iraq in 2003, his belief in the task ahead - of delivering democracy and stability to the Iraqi people - was unquestioning. Sassaman was an inspirational leader to his men, and many felt that he was destined one day to become a general. Six months into his tour, caught in the political and literal crossfire of the insurgency, his good intentions and belief systems were shattered. Unprepared for the hostile environment he found himself in, with little support coming from Washington and taking daily attacks from insurgents, Sassaman was pushed to the very darkest regions of his psyche.
 
Alaa Adel was 12 years old in the summer of 2003, when she too was caught in crossfire on the streets of Baghdad. She suffered life-changing injuries when she was hit in the face by shrapnel from one of the first roadside bombs, which were planted by insurgents and intended for American forces. 

Looking back at that time, both Sassaman and Alaa question the benefits of the war in Iraq. While one struggles with the guilt of their actions, the other lives with bristling resentment and ongoing anger.

Once Upon a Time in Iraq: Series 1

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Once Upon a Time in Iraq

Series 1

Insurgency

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