Kassem Hawal started his artistic career early in his life, practicing professional theatre at the age of 16 and establishing a theatrical group called (Al NOUR) in his home town Al Basra at the age of 18. Under his direction, the group produced several plays; he wrote some of them and acted in many. He studied theatre acting and directing (1959-1963). He is the founder of Aflam Al yaom - Films Today, and of the Alternative Arab Cinema (1972). He also contributed to the founding of the Arab Cinematography Union. He directed 28 documentaries and five features. He acted in three feature films. His films won several awards including two gold and two silver medals. In 1979 he was elected chairman of The Iraqi Writers, Journalists and Artists League in Exile in Lebanon.