Mohammad Rasoulof is one of Iran’s most renowned directors, although none of his films have been released in his homeland. The artist has long been repressed by state authorities, and was recently sentenced to eight years in prison, flogging, a fine and confiscation of property by the court.
Therefore, he decided to illegally escape to Europe, where the Cannes film festival is currently taking place. It is at this prestigious event that his latest film “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” will premiere, for which the Iranian regime persecuted not only the director, but also producers and actors. Moreover, there was pressure from the authorities to withdraw the film from the Cannes festival.
The regime wanted Mohammad Rasoulof to withdraw the film from the Cannes festival. He did not give in and fled the country
Iranian courts believe that Rasoulf’s anti-government activities constitute a crime against the state. It’s about signing up to various protests or making feature films and documentaries that are not in line with state propaganda.
The world-renowned director has been censored in Iran for many years. In 2022, he signed an appeal to Iran’s law enforcement forces not to use violence against protesters, for which he was sentenced to prison. A year later, when his health deteriorated, he was placed under house arrest
He did not personally receive the statuette for the previous film. This year the situation may be completely different
However, Mohammad Rasoulof remained steadfast and constantly worked on new productions that were appreciated by viewers around the world. His previous film “There Is No Evil” won the prestigious Golden Bear at the Berlinale in 2023.
The premiere of the director’s latest work will take place on May 24, 2024. Media information shows that Rasoulof will appear during the event. “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” shows oppression and paranoia on the example of one family, which is why it became a cause of conflict with the Iranian authorities.
The main character is an investigating judge who, during the growing unrest in Tehran, discovers that his weapon has disappeared. Suspecting his wife and daughters, he introduces draconian repression that strains family ties in the face of the collapse of social rules.
Source: Gazeta
Bruce is a talented author and journalist with a passion for entertainment . He currently works as a writer at the 247 News Agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the industry.
