“My Name is Rawan” – A Story of Resilience and Language Finds Japanese Audience, Boasts Perfect Rotten Tomatoes Score
Tokyo, Japan – A profoundly moving documentary, “My Name is Rawan,” is set to captivate Japanese audiences starting January 9, 2026, with screenings planned at Shinjuku Musashinokan and theaters nationwide. The film, which has already garnered a perfect 100% “Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes and widespread acclaim at international film festivals, offers an intimate portrait of Rawan Hamadamin, a deaf boy from Iraqi Kurdistan navigating a new life as a refugee in England. This is breaking news for film enthusiasts and advocates for inclusivity, arriving at a particularly resonant moment with the recent Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics and the growing global conversation around accessibility.
From Perilous Journey to Finding a Voice
Rawan’s story begins in Iraqi Kurdistan, where he faced isolation and bullying due to his deafness. His parents, seeking a better future for their son, embarked on a harrowing journey as refugees, eventually finding sanctuary in Derby, England. The film meticulously chronicles the family’s struggles – the dangers of displacement, the uncertainty of refugee camps, and the challenges of adapting to a new culture. But at its heart, “My Name is Rawan” isn’t a story of despair; it’s a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for resilience.
Upon arriving in Derby, Rawan enrolled at Derby Royal School for the Deaf, a turning point in his life. There, he discovered British Sign Language (BSL), a language that unlocked his potential and allowed him to connect with the world around him. The documentary beautifully illustrates Rawan’s rapid progress and his decision to embrace BSL as his primary mode of communication – a choice that, while empowering, also brings its own set of obstacles, including communication barriers with his family and the looming threat of deportation.
A Filmmaker’s Dedication and a Universal Message
Director Edward Lovelace, known for his critically acclaimed documentary “The Possibilities Are Endless,” spent four years filming Rawan’s life, even learning BSL himself to foster a deeper connection with his subject. Lovelace assembled a diverse production team, including Kurdish and deaf producers, ensuring an authentic and respectful portrayal of Rawan’s experience. “The film’s aim is to show the world what happens when you have the freedom to express yourself through the language of your choice in a place that accepts you for who you are,” Lovelace explains. This dedication to authenticity is palpable throughout the film, which utilizes dynamic cinematography and a moving musical score to capture Rawan’s inner world.
Echoes of Hope and the Power of Communication
Early reactions to the film have been overwhelmingly positive. Utamaru of the Japanese hip-hop group RHYMESTER described the film as a powerful exploration of how language can “expand a perspective that has been confined to a minority framework.” Photographer Yodo Saito echoed this sentiment, noting that the film prompts viewers to contemplate the very essence of words and communication. The film’s catchphrases – “This world can definitely be changed” and “For me, words mean freedom” – encapsulate its core message of hope and empowerment.
The timing of the Japanese release is particularly significant. Following the successful hosting of the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics and the “City of Sign Language Tokyo International Deaf Arts Festival,” Japan is experiencing a heightened awareness of deaf culture and the importance of inclusivity. “My Name is Rawan” arrives as a timely and poignant reminder of the challenges and triumphs faced by deaf individuals, particularly those navigating the complexities of displacement and cultural adaptation.
Advance tickets for “My Name is Rawan” will be available starting November 21, 2025, through Mubichike Online, with screenings commencing at Shinjuku Musashinokan and other locations nationwide on January 9, 2026. This is more than just a film; it’s a window into a world often unseen, a celebration of resilience, and a powerful call for understanding and acceptance. For those seeking stories that resonate with the human condition and champion the power of communication, “My Name is Rawan” promises to be an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Further Information: https://lawand-film.com/
