Iranian

Iranian Filmmaker Soheil Beiraghi’s ‘Bidad’ Triumphs at Karlovy Vary Festival Amidst Government Backlash

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Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic — Iranian filmmaker Soheil Beiraghi faced significant legal challenges for his latest film, Bidad, also known as Outcry, which recently earned the Special Jury Award at the 59th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, celebrated as one of Central Europe’s major cinematic events. The film tells the story of a young girl who defies Iran’s strict laws by singing in public, activities that have been banned since the 1979 revolution. It further challenges societal norms, particularly through its portrayal of women who do not wear the mandated hijab, making a bold statement … Read more

Iranian Documentary ‘The Last of the Whale Shark’ Snags Special Jury Award at Inaugural SCO Film Festival

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TEHRAN, Iran — The inaugural Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Film Festival recently honored Iranian filmmaker Ramtin Balef with the Special Jury Award for his documentary “The Last of the Whale Shark.” The festival took place from July 3 to 7 in the Yongchuan district of Chongqing, China, coinciding with the BRICS Summit and the first Asian Countries Meeting. Balef’s documentary explores the poignant journey of a whale shark as it seeks its soul mate within the vastness of the ocean. It stands as a notable entry in a festival that showcased a diverse array of … Read more

Jafar Panahi’s Powerful Return: Iranian Filmmaker Wins Cannes Palme d’Or After Years of Oppression

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CANNES, France — Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi captured the prestigious Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival on Saturday for his gripping revenge thriller, “It Was Just an Accident.” This recognition comes after Panahi faced a travel ban in Iran for over 15 years, underscoring both his talent and the struggles he has endured as a dissident artist. The award was presented by actress Cate Blanchett, who lauded Panahi during a ceremony that captivated the audience. The filmmaker’s journey has been fraught with challenges, including a recent imprisonment in Iran that sparked a hunger strike … Read more

Cannes Film Festival Crowns Iranian Filmmaker Jafar Panahi with Palme d’Or Amidst Intense Selection Drama

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CANNES, France — The prestigious Cannes Film Festival concluded with the revelation of its award winners, following a unique selection process likened by actor Jeremy Strong to a papal conclave. Strong, who serves on the jury, humorously noted the importance of the event while likening it to a “conclave with champagne” at a Saturday press conference. The festival’s top honor, the Palme d’Or, was awarded to Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi for his gripping revenge thriller, “It Was Just an Accident.” Known for his outspoken critiques of the Iranian government, Panahi has faced significant personal and … Read more