Fatih Akin’s latest film, Rhinegold, tells the fascinating true story of German rapper Xatar, born Giwar Hajabi. Hailing from Iranian Kurdistan, Hajabi endured immense hardships from a young age after his family was forced to flee political turmoil. As a refugee, Hajabi bounced between Iraq, France, and Germany, struggling to find stability in his youth. Facing discrimination and financial troubles, he drifted towards crime, dealing drugs, and getting embroiled in Amsterdam’s criminal underworld.

Just when it seems his future is sealed, Hajabi discovers a passion for music. Enrolling in a prestigious conservatory, he nurtures his musical talents yet stays tangled with gangsters. A botched gold heist lands Hajabi in a Syrian prison, where unspeakable torture awaits. Remarkably, this is where Hajabi’s career truly begins, as he starts recording rap songs, honing his lyrical skills. Upon release, Hajabi emerges, reborn as Xatar, rapidly rising to fame throughout Germany.