SAN DIEGO, California, August 23-2026. Award-winning biologist, medical researcher, author, and filmmaker Dr. Soudabeh Etessami won best animation for her family film, Mr. Alex, the Hamster Who Wanted to Be Free, at the prestigious San Diego International Kids Film Festival. The film will screen on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 2:40-3:40 p.m. at Carlsbad Senior Center auditorium, located at 799 Pine Avenue Carlsbad, CA 92008. This popular festival was founded by producer and entrepreneur Ling Tang.
Based on Dr. Etessami’s children’s book (The award-recognized children’s book, Runner-Up at the 2023 Hollywood Book Festival and Honorable Mention, 2023 Los Angeles Book festival) of the same name inspired by a true story, Mr. Alex, the Hamster Who Wanted to Be Free follows the adventures of a clever pet hamster named Mr. Alex, who repeatedly escapes from his cage in search of freedom. Hidden within the walls of his family’s home, he creates his own world of food, comfort, and adventure before eventually being discovered and returned to captivity.
Despite increasingly secure attempts to keep him confined, Mr. Alex never loses his determination to be free. His remarkable journey ultimately leaves his owner, Dr. Etessami, and her daughter, Samira, with a profound appreciation for the value of freedom, independence, and the universal desire to live life on one’s own terms.
Filled with warmth, humor, and heart, the film encourages children and families to reflect on compassion, empathy, and the importance of respecting all living creatures. This film is written and produced by Dr. Etessami and based on illustrations by Arshia Darbahani. The illustrations and animation are by Alexander Derrick with the voiceover by Lena Heroine. The music was scored by David Fesliyan.
“Winning is not only about receiving the prize, it is having the courage to dream, the determination to keep going, and the joy of seeing your dream become real. Many thanks to the founder of this festival, Ling Tang as well as May Goldi and the rest of the festival team,” said Dr. Etessami.
About Dr. Soudabeh Etessami
Dr. Soudabeh Etessami is a biologist, medical researcher, author, and filmmaker whose work combines science, storytelling, and compassion. She is the author of the memoir Saffron, Rose Water and Blood and the children’s book Mr. Alex, the Hamster Who Wanted to Be Free, which inspired the film. Dr. Etessami is also the niece of celebrated Persian poet Parvin Etesami, one of Iran’s most influential literary figures.
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