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

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

Jafar Panahi Triumphs at Cannes: "An Ordinary Accident" Takes Home the Palme d’Or

CANNES, France — Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi’s latest drama, “An Ordinary Accident,” has secured the prestigious title of best feature film during the 78th Cannes Film Festival. The announcement was made at the event’s closing ceremony, which aired on France 2. This achievement marks another significant milestone in Panahi’s remarkable career at Cannes. He previously garnered the “Golden Camera” for his debut film, “White Ball,” in 1995. His film “Three Faces” won best screenplay in 2018, and in 2022, he received a special jury prize for “Without Bears.” The Grand Prix, the festival’s second most … Read more