Azerbaijan`s animated film “Hadis” achieved remarkable success at the 14th edition of PIAFF, the Paris International Animation Film Festival, earning the prestigious “Audience Award”.

Directed by Nazrin Aghamaliyeva and produced by Rashid Aghamaliyev, “Hadis” portrays the story of a young girl`s quest for justice in a world dominated by symbolic crows.

The short animated film is dedicated to Hadis Najafi, a 22-year-old ethnic Azerbaijani Turk who was tragically killed by Iranian security forces during protests in Iran on September 21, 2022. It also pays homage to those who bravely oppose gender, ethnic and cultural discrimination in the country.

Co-written by Ismail Iman and Nazrin Aghamaliyeva, with Masud Panahi serving as a consultant, “Hadis” features lead animation by Andrea Szelesová and editing by Jorge Sánchez Calderón. Voice acting is performed by Zohre Karimi, while the captivating soundtrack showcases the music of renowned Azerbaijani musician Sevda Alakbarzade.

Produced by ANIMAFILM Studio with financial support from the Azerbaijan Cultural Society of Northern California, “Hadis” received media backing from the Azerbaijan Animation Association and the Akinchi platform.

Its premiere occurred at the Annecy International Animated Film Festival, a prestigious event in the animation world. The film has been submitted to 38 international festivals, four of which – such as the BUSAN International Film Festival, ANIMEST International Animation Film Festival, Annecy International Animated Film Festival and Izmir International Short Film Festival - are Oscar-qualifying festivals.

“Hadis” has won awards at various international film festivals in Türkiye, Germany, Italy, France, Kazakhstan, Georgia, and Azerbaijan.