“My Small Land,” Director Kawawada Emma’s Debut Film, Brings Kurdish Refugee Realities to the Screen

Arashi Lina, who stars in My Small Land as Sarya. (© 2022, My Small Land production committee)

The family’s residence cards are invalidated with a hole punch after their refugee status is denied. (© 2022, My Small Land production committee)

Kawawada Emma, director of My Small Land.

Sarya opens up about her background to Sōta, a friend from work. (© 2022, My Small Land production committee)

Sarya didn’t open up about herself, even to her friends. (© 2022, My Small Land production committee)

The true closeness of family comes through clearly on screen. (© 2022, My Small Land production committee)

© 2022, My Small Land production committee.