Incredible iconography emerges from the most unexpected places, as master of the slice-of-life, Asghar Farhadi, has shown throughout his catalogue of delicate features of the familial variety. The Oscar-nominated director often uses a palette of restrained colours and textures, decidedly relying on the explosive performances of his stellar cast to translate the gritty and forceful side of the human experience onto the silver screen. For His 2016 feature film, Farhadi examines the two sides of a coin to the victim of physical assault.
For Shahab Hosseini's Emad, life is clad in the tedious humdrum of routine beats. A stint of being a lecturer for cheeky schoolkids by day and a progressive screenwriter at night, sees him having his life entwined with actress-wife, Rana(Taraneh Alidoosti), who becomes the subject of this haunting scene, when a series of tumultuous events rocks their world upside-down.
The setting is cloistered within an intimate...
For Shahab Hosseini's Emad, life is clad in the tedious humdrum of routine beats. A stint of being a lecturer for cheeky schoolkids by day and a progressive screenwriter at night, sees him having his life entwined with actress-wife, Rana(Taraneh Alidoosti), who becomes the subject of this haunting scene, when a series of tumultuous events rocks their world upside-down.
The setting is cloistered within an intimate...
- 2/19/2024
- by Leon Overee
- AsianMoviePulse
Another week, another early Asghar Farhadi film gets restored and finally comes to North America. Following last week’s release of his 2003 drama Dancing in the Dust, Film Movement Classics will now release the Oscar-winning Iranian director’s second feature Beautiful City in a new 2K restoration approved by Farhadi. Led by Taraneh Alidoosti––who would go on to work with the director in Fireworks Wednesday, About Elly, and The Salesman––the 2004 drama will be released digitally on October 13 and we’re pleased to exclusively deubt the new trailer.
Here’s the full synopsis: “After spending two years in juvenile detention for killing his girlfriend as a teenager, the troubled, young Akbar is transferred to an adult facility shortly after turning 18. No longer a minor, his death sentence will soon be legally carried out. Meanwhile outside, Ala — Akbar’s friend and newly paroled petty thief — along with Akbar’s sister...
Here’s the full synopsis: “After spending two years in juvenile detention for killing his girlfriend as a teenager, the troubled, young Akbar is transferred to an adult facility shortly after turning 18. No longer a minor, his death sentence will soon be legally carried out. Meanwhile outside, Ala — Akbar’s friend and newly paroled petty thief — along with Akbar’s sister...
- 10/4/2023
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
Imagine if there is another version of us in a parallel world somewhere. That very thought is frightening itself, but imagine if that other version lives in our same world. That sounds fine considering the world is big and people can live in different parts of the world. But, what if, that version lives nearby and it is just a matter of time before we bump into them? This is exactly the premise of this film. Subtraction is a brilliantly made, intense, fast-paced sci-fi thriller that keeps you engaged the whole time. Director Mani Haghighi has made a film that is technically magnificent in every regard while telling a story of identity, anxiety and trust in a male dominant hierarchical society.
We meet Farzaneh (Taraneh Alidoosti) who is a pregnant driving instructor in the middle of her driving lesson with a student. They are stuck in traffic and it’s pouring outside.
We meet Farzaneh (Taraneh Alidoosti) who is a pregnant driving instructor in the middle of her driving lesson with a student. They are stuck in traffic and it’s pouring outside.
- 8/20/2023
- by Prem
- Talking Films
An Iranian filmmaker and his producer reportedly face prison time and being barred from filmmaking after they showcased a movie at the Cannes Film Festival without government approval, drawing immediate criticism internationally from leading American director Martin Scorsese and others.
Director Saeed Roustayi and producer Javad Norouzbeigi traveled to Cannes last year to show “Leila’s Brothers,” competing for the festival’s grand Palme d’Or prize. The film focuses on a family struggling to make ends meet as Iran faces international sanctions and includes sequences showing protests in the Islamic Republic as a series of nationwide demonstrations shook the nation.
The film also depicts security forces beating demonstrators protesting Iran’s ailing economy, which has already sparked mass protests and bloody security force crackdowns killing hundreds. The family in it loses all its savings over the rapid depreciation of Iran’s rial currency, something Iranians across the country have lived with for years.
Director Saeed Roustayi and producer Javad Norouzbeigi traveled to Cannes last year to show “Leila’s Brothers,” competing for the festival’s grand Palme d’Or prize. The film focuses on a family struggling to make ends meet as Iran faces international sanctions and includes sequences showing protests in the Islamic Republic as a series of nationwide demonstrations shook the nation.
The film also depicts security forces beating demonstrators protesting Iran’s ailing economy, which has already sparked mass protests and bloody security force crackdowns killing hundreds. The family in it loses all its savings over the rapid depreciation of Iran’s rial currency, something Iranians across the country have lived with for years.
- 8/17/2023
- by Corey Atad
- ET Canada
Iranian director Saeed Roustaee has been sentenced to six months to prison for showing his latest film, “Leila’s Brothers,” at last year’s Cannes Film Festival, according to an Iranian report.
The Islamic Revolutionary Court convicted both Roustaee and Javad Noruzbegi for “contributing to the propaganda of the opposition against the Islamic system,” according to the Iranian daily Etemad.
The nearly three-hour saga, which marked Roustaee’s debut in competition at the Cannes Film Festival, stars “The Salesman” actor Taraneh Alidoosti as one of five siblings fighting to find a way out of poverty in Tehran. The socially-minded movie was banned in Iran last year for “breaking the rules by being entered at international film festivals without authorisation,” according to the Afp, which quoted Iranian authorities.
Roustaee and Noruzbegi will serve about nine days in prison, while the remainder of the sentence will be suspended over five years, during which...
The Islamic Revolutionary Court convicted both Roustaee and Javad Noruzbegi for “contributing to the propaganda of the opposition against the Islamic system,” according to the Iranian daily Etemad.
The nearly three-hour saga, which marked Roustaee’s debut in competition at the Cannes Film Festival, stars “The Salesman” actor Taraneh Alidoosti as one of five siblings fighting to find a way out of poverty in Tehran. The socially-minded movie was banned in Iran last year for “breaking the rules by being entered at international film festivals without authorisation,” according to the Afp, which quoted Iranian authorities.
Roustaee and Noruzbegi will serve about nine days in prison, while the remainder of the sentence will be suspended over five years, during which...
- 8/16/2023
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
“Woman. Life. Freedom.”
“Zan. Zindagi. Azadi.”
These words have been chanted around the world for months in support of Iranian women who are demanding freedom of expression and an end to the country’s oppressive rules for women.
This inspiring female-led movement was sparked by the death of Jina “Mahsa” Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian Kurdish woman who died while in custody of morality police for allegedly wearing a loose headscarf.
Iran is now experiencing its biggest wave of demonstrations in decades, with acts of protest by female demonstrators including publicly removing their hijab or cutting their hair. The cry for change has even won awards. Shervin Hajipour’s “Baraye” – Iran’s unofficial protest anthem – made history by becoming the first award-winner for a new Grammy Award category, “Best Song for Social Change.”
Iran’s security forces have responded with reportedly deadly force, with over 500 people killed since protests began, according...
“Zan. Zindagi. Azadi.”
These words have been chanted around the world for months in support of Iranian women who are demanding freedom of expression and an end to the country’s oppressive rules for women.
This inspiring female-led movement was sparked by the death of Jina “Mahsa” Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian Kurdish woman who died while in custody of morality police for allegedly wearing a loose headscarf.
Iran is now experiencing its biggest wave of demonstrations in decades, with acts of protest by female demonstrators including publicly removing their hijab or cutting their hair. The cry for change has even won awards. Shervin Hajipour’s “Baraye” – Iran’s unofficial protest anthem – made history by becoming the first award-winner for a new Grammy Award category, “Best Song for Social Change.”
Iran’s security forces have responded with reportedly deadly force, with over 500 people killed since protests began, according...
- 3/1/2023
- by Sharareh Drury
- Variety Film + TV
Films Boutique has closed a flurry of deals on “Subtraction,” Mani Haghighi’s Iranian noir thriller which world premiered at Toronto in the competition Platform section.
The Berlin-based company has closed deals in France (Diaphana in association with Kinovista), Russia and Cis (A One), Canada (Films We Like), Ex-Yugoslavia (McF Megacom), Middle East (Fron Row), Poland (Mayfly), Taiwan (Proview Ent.), Australia and New Zealand (Vendetta), Switzerland (Trigon) and Benelux (September Films).
The movie is headlined by Taraneh Alidoosti, the Iranian star of “The Salesman” and “Leila’s Brothers” and Navid Mohammadzadeh (“Leila’s Brothers”). Both Haghighi and Alidoosti have recently been targeted by Iranian authorities. Alidoosti was temporarily arrested, while Haghighi had his passport confiscated as he was about to board a flight to attend the BFI London Film Festival.
Set in downtown Tehran, the movie stars Farzaneh as a young driving instructor who spots her husband, Jalal, walking into a woman’s apartment.
The Berlin-based company has closed deals in France (Diaphana in association with Kinovista), Russia and Cis (A One), Canada (Films We Like), Ex-Yugoslavia (McF Megacom), Middle East (Fron Row), Poland (Mayfly), Taiwan (Proview Ent.), Australia and New Zealand (Vendetta), Switzerland (Trigon) and Benelux (September Films).
The movie is headlined by Taraneh Alidoosti, the Iranian star of “The Salesman” and “Leila’s Brothers” and Navid Mohammadzadeh (“Leila’s Brothers”). Both Haghighi and Alidoosti have recently been targeted by Iranian authorities. Alidoosti was temporarily arrested, while Haghighi had his passport confiscated as he was about to board a flight to attend the BFI London Film Festival.
Set in downtown Tehran, the movie stars Farzaneh as a young driving instructor who spots her husband, Jalal, walking into a woman’s apartment.
- 2/15/2023
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Dissident Iranian director Jafar Panahi has been released from Tehran’s Evin prison, his wife Tahereh Saeidi has announced in an Instagram post.
The director was released on Friday two days after announcing he was going on a hunger strike to protest still being incarcerated after Iran’s supreme court last October had overturned a six-year sentence issued against the director in 2010 for “propaganda against the system.” That sentence had become obsolete due to the country’s 10-year statute of limitations. But the directors’ wife and lawyers said that Iranian security services were forcing the judiciary to keep him behind bars.
“Although I am happy about Mr. Panahi’s release, it must be said that it should have taken place three months ago,” the director’s lawyer Saleh Nikbakht said in a statement on Friday. He noted that Panahi should have been released on bail last Oct. 18, the day his sentence was overturned.
The director was released on Friday two days after announcing he was going on a hunger strike to protest still being incarcerated after Iran’s supreme court last October had overturned a six-year sentence issued against the director in 2010 for “propaganda against the system.” That sentence had become obsolete due to the country’s 10-year statute of limitations. But the directors’ wife and lawyers said that Iranian security services were forcing the judiciary to keep him behind bars.
“Although I am happy about Mr. Panahi’s release, it must be said that it should have taken place three months ago,” the director’s lawyer Saleh Nikbakht said in a statement on Friday. He noted that Panahi should have been released on bail last Oct. 18, the day his sentence was overturned.
- 2/3/2023
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Jafar Panahi has gone on a hunger strike to protest being still held in Tehran’s Evin prison even though Iran’s supreme court has overturned the conviction that led to the dissident director’s detention.
Panani has issued a statement from prison saying that to protest against the “illegal and inhumane” treatment by the Islamic Republic’s judiciary and security forces and their “hostage-taking” he will stop eating, drinking, and taking his medications until “maybe my lifeless body would be released from this prison.”
The statement announcing Panahi’s decision to go on a hunger strike was posted by Panahi’s wife Tahereh Saeedi and son Panah Panahi on their Instagram accounts.
Panahi, 62, is known globally for prizewinning works such as “The Circle,” “Offside,” “This is Not a Film,” “Taxi,” and most recently “No Bears,” winner of last year’s Venice’s Special Jury Prize. He was arrested last...
Panani has issued a statement from prison saying that to protest against the “illegal and inhumane” treatment by the Islamic Republic’s judiciary and security forces and their “hostage-taking” he will stop eating, drinking, and taking his medications until “maybe my lifeless body would be released from this prison.”
The statement announcing Panahi’s decision to go on a hunger strike was posted by Panahi’s wife Tahereh Saeedi and son Panah Panahi on their Instagram accounts.
Panahi, 62, is known globally for prizewinning works such as “The Circle,” “Offside,” “This is Not a Film,” “Taxi,” and most recently “No Bears,” winner of last year’s Venice’s Special Jury Prize. He was arrested last...
- 2/2/2023
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Iranian director Jafar Panahi, whose film “No Bears,” opened in the U.S. in December, has begun a hunger strike to protest to protest his continued detention at the notoriously harsh Evin Prison in Tehran, Iran, despite an Iranian Supreme Court ruling that overturned his conviction in January.
His wife, Tahereh Saeedi, and son, Panah Panahi, both shared his statement in Instagram posts on Wednesday.
“I firmly declare that in protest against the illegal and inhumane behavior of the judicial and security apparatus and their hostage-taking, I have started a hunger strike since the morning of the 12th of Bahman (February 1),” the statement shared with media outlets read.
“I will refuse to eat and drink any food and medicine until the time of my release. I will remain in this state until perhaps my lifeless body is freed from prison.”
Also Read:
‘No Bears’ Review: Jafar Panahi Continues to Create Powerful Art,...
His wife, Tahereh Saeedi, and son, Panah Panahi, both shared his statement in Instagram posts on Wednesday.
“I firmly declare that in protest against the illegal and inhumane behavior of the judicial and security apparatus and their hostage-taking, I have started a hunger strike since the morning of the 12th of Bahman (February 1),” the statement shared with media outlets read.
“I will refuse to eat and drink any food and medicine until the time of my release. I will remain in this state until perhaps my lifeless body is freed from prison.”
Also Read:
‘No Bears’ Review: Jafar Panahi Continues to Create Powerful Art,...
- 2/2/2023
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
GÖTEBORG, Sweden — Many of the screenings at this year’s Göteborg International Film Festival have been preceded by a talk or introduction.
But none, so far, have witnessed a dignified protest. That all changed on Tuesday when audiences at the city’s Grand Theatre watched a 30-minute on-stage protest by Iranian actor and Nordic Competition jury head Zar Amir Ebrahimi (“Holy Spider”).
Amir Ebrahimi dedicated the protest to the Iranian people and the jailed artists of Iran. Joining her on stage were fellow jury members Sofie Gråbøl, Nahid Persson and Gizem Erdogan, as well as Swedish-Iranian filmmakers and Jonas Holmberg, artistic director of the Göteborg Film Festival.
Following a speech critical of the Iranian regime and of the crackdown that has so far led to more than 500 deaths, she then read out the names of 173 jailed artists and cultural figures whose names were displayed on a screen on the stage.
But none, so far, have witnessed a dignified protest. That all changed on Tuesday when audiences at the city’s Grand Theatre watched a 30-minute on-stage protest by Iranian actor and Nordic Competition jury head Zar Amir Ebrahimi (“Holy Spider”).
Amir Ebrahimi dedicated the protest to the Iranian people and the jailed artists of Iran. Joining her on stage were fellow jury members Sofie Gråbøl, Nahid Persson and Gizem Erdogan, as well as Swedish-Iranian filmmakers and Jonas Holmberg, artistic director of the Göteborg Film Festival.
Following a speech critical of the Iranian regime and of the crackdown that has so far led to more than 500 deaths, she then read out the names of 173 jailed artists and cultural figures whose names were displayed on a screen on the stage.
- 1/31/2023
- by Liza Foreman
- Variety Film + TV
Holy Spider star Zar Amir Ebrahimi led a demonstration in support of the people of Iran and the artists who have been detained by the country’s political regime at the Göteborg Film Festival Tuesday evening.
Ebrahimi, who this year leads the festival’s official competition jury, took the stage prior to the screening of Subtraction by Iranian filmmaker Mani Haghighi and read a statement written by a group of artists called Art Culture Action Association.
During her speech, Amir Ebrahimi urged the spectators to sign the statement, which called for listeners to show support and solidarity for the people of Iran against the actions of the political regime.
“We, artists, writers, academics, and cultural practitioners from across disciplines and various countries, support the call of our Iranian colleagues to stand in solidarity with their struggle against the repressive and despotic Islamic state in Iran,” Ebrahimi said during her speech.
Ebrahimi, who this year leads the festival’s official competition jury, took the stage prior to the screening of Subtraction by Iranian filmmaker Mani Haghighi and read a statement written by a group of artists called Art Culture Action Association.
During her speech, Amir Ebrahimi urged the spectators to sign the statement, which called for listeners to show support and solidarity for the people of Iran against the actions of the political regime.
“We, artists, writers, academics, and cultural practitioners from across disciplines and various countries, support the call of our Iranian colleagues to stand in solidarity with their struggle against the repressive and despotic Islamic state in Iran,” Ebrahimi said during her speech.
- 1/31/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
A ruling on Jafar Panahi’s release from Tehran’s Evin prison is deemed imminent now that Iran’s supreme court has overturned the conviction that led to the incarceration last year of the auteur who is considered one of Iranian cinema’s greatest living masters.
Panahi’s wife, Tahereh Saeedi, has launched an appeal on Instagram stating that his lawyers have managed to successfully overturn the six-year sentence issued against the director in 2010 for “propaganda against the system.” That sentence has become obsolete due to the country’s 10-year statute of limitations. Panahi’s case has now been sent to an Iranian court of appeals.
“Last week we were informed that Jafar will be out in a week,” Saeedi said in the appeal posted on Instagram this week. However, “a week passed by and Jafar is still not with us,” she went on to lament.
Panahi’s lawyer, Saleh Nikhbakht,...
Panahi’s wife, Tahereh Saeedi, has launched an appeal on Instagram stating that his lawyers have managed to successfully overturn the six-year sentence issued against the director in 2010 for “propaganda against the system.” That sentence has become obsolete due to the country’s 10-year statute of limitations. Panahi’s case has now been sent to an Iranian court of appeals.
“Last week we were informed that Jafar will be out in a week,” Saeedi said in the appeal posted on Instagram this week. However, “a week passed by and Jafar is still not with us,” she went on to lament.
Panahi’s lawyer, Saleh Nikhbakht,...
- 1/28/2023
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Sweden’s Göteborg Film Festival announced Tuesday lineup for its 46th edition, with “Danish Girl” star Alicia Vikander and double Palme d’Or winning director Ruben Östlund among attendees.
The biggest festival in Scandinavia, Göteborg opens with the world premiere of Abbe Hassan’s “Exodus” on Jan. 27. Its closing film is “Camino” by Birgitte Stærmose.
The festival will screen 250 films during 10 days. “Exodus” will compete for the title of Best Nordic Film – and a prize sum of Sek 400 000 – alongside “Godland,” IFFR opener “Munch,” “Ellos eatnu – Let the River Flow,” “Unruly,” “Four Little Adults,” “Copenhagen Does Not Exist” and “Dogborn,” already shown in Venice.
In the Nordic Documentary Competition, the audience will get to see “Hypernoon,” “The King,” IDFA winner “Apolonia, Apolonia,” “Bong Thom” (“The Brother”), “Labor” and “Monica in the South Seas.”
“Nordic countries are opening up for discussion about their role in colonial history. It’s something that’s...
The biggest festival in Scandinavia, Göteborg opens with the world premiere of Abbe Hassan’s “Exodus” on Jan. 27. Its closing film is “Camino” by Birgitte Stærmose.
The festival will screen 250 films during 10 days. “Exodus” will compete for the title of Best Nordic Film – and a prize sum of Sek 400 000 – alongside “Godland,” IFFR opener “Munch,” “Ellos eatnu – Let the River Flow,” “Unruly,” “Four Little Adults,” “Copenhagen Does Not Exist” and “Dogborn,” already shown in Venice.
In the Nordic Documentary Competition, the audience will get to see “Hypernoon,” “The King,” IDFA winner “Apolonia, Apolonia,” “Bong Thom” (“The Brother”), “Labor” and “Monica in the South Seas.”
“Nordic countries are opening up for discussion about their role in colonial history. It’s something that’s...
- 1/10/2023
- by Marta Balaga
- Variety Film + TV
Zar Amir Ebrahimi, who won best actress at Cannes for her performance in Ali Abassi’s “Holy Spider” is set to head the jury of the Nordic competition at the Göteborg Film Festival.
Ebrahimi is a celebrated Iranian actor, director, producer and casting director. Her credits include “Bride Price vs. Democracy,” “Teheran Tabu” and Noora Niasari’s film “Shayda” which is set to compete at Sundance. She currently stars in “White Paradise,” a contemporary western directed by Guillaume Renusson which just came out in France.
Ebrahimi will be joined on the jury by actress Sofie Gråbøl, director Antonio Lukich and composer Matti Bye.
“I am incredibly proud to be leading a jury of these impressive artists so that we may not only amplify the stellar work in the festival, but to also draw attention to the atrocities happening every day around us,” said Ebrahimi.
The actor fled from the Iranian...
Ebrahimi is a celebrated Iranian actor, director, producer and casting director. Her credits include “Bride Price vs. Democracy,” “Teheran Tabu” and Noora Niasari’s film “Shayda” which is set to compete at Sundance. She currently stars in “White Paradise,” a contemporary western directed by Guillaume Renusson which just came out in France.
Ebrahimi will be joined on the jury by actress Sofie Gråbøl, director Antonio Lukich and composer Matti Bye.
“I am incredibly proud to be leading a jury of these impressive artists so that we may not only amplify the stellar work in the festival, but to also draw attention to the atrocities happening every day around us,” said Ebrahimi.
The actor fled from the Iranian...
- 1/5/2023
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Holy Spider breakout Zar Amir Ebrahimi will head the jury of the Nordic Competition at the 46th Göteborg Film Festival, running from January 27 – February 5.
Ebrahimi will be joined on the jury by Danish actress Sofie Gråbøl (The Killing), Ukrainian filmmaker Antonio Lukich, and composer Matti Bye. The jury hands out the gong for the Dragon Award for Best Nordic Film. Last year, the awards were handed out with a Sek 400 000 cash prize. Nine films will compete in the 2023 Nordic Competition. The nominees will be revealed on January 10.
“I am incredibly proud to be leading a jury of these impressive artists so that we may not only amplify the stellar work in the festival but to also draw attention to the atrocities happening every day around us,” said Amir Ebrahimi.
Ebrahimi picked up the Best Actress prize at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival for her leading role in Ali Abbasi’s Holy Spider.
Ebrahimi will be joined on the jury by Danish actress Sofie Gråbøl (The Killing), Ukrainian filmmaker Antonio Lukich, and composer Matti Bye. The jury hands out the gong for the Dragon Award for Best Nordic Film. Last year, the awards were handed out with a Sek 400 000 cash prize. Nine films will compete in the 2023 Nordic Competition. The nominees will be revealed on January 10.
“I am incredibly proud to be leading a jury of these impressive artists so that we may not only amplify the stellar work in the festival but to also draw attention to the atrocities happening every day around us,” said Amir Ebrahimi.
Ebrahimi picked up the Best Actress prize at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival for her leading role in Ali Abbasi’s Holy Spider.
- 1/5/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
Iranian actress Zar Amir Ebrahimi, the star of Ali Abbasi’s Oscar contender Holy Spider, will head up the Nordic competition jury at this year’s Goteborg Film Festival.
Ebrahimi, riding high following her star-making performance in Holy Spider, which won her the best actress honor in Cannes last year, will oversee the main competition section at Goteborg, Sweden’s leading film fest.
She’s joined on the 2023 Goteborg jury by Danish actress Sofie Grabol (The Killing), Ukrainian director Antonio Lukich (Luxembourg, Luxembourg) and Swedish film composer Matti Bye (The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared). The jury will pick the best films from this year’s festival from the Nordic regions. The nine films in the 2023 Nordic Competition lineup will be announced Jan. 10.
In Holy Spider, Ebrahimi plays an Iranian journalist trying to find a serial killer who has been targeting sex workers in Iran’s holy city of Mashhad.
Ebrahimi, riding high following her star-making performance in Holy Spider, which won her the best actress honor in Cannes last year, will oversee the main competition section at Goteborg, Sweden’s leading film fest.
She’s joined on the 2023 Goteborg jury by Danish actress Sofie Grabol (The Killing), Ukrainian director Antonio Lukich (Luxembourg, Luxembourg) and Swedish film composer Matti Bye (The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared). The jury will pick the best films from this year’s festival from the Nordic regions. The nine films in the 2023 Nordic Competition lineup will be announced Jan. 10.
In Holy Spider, Ebrahimi plays an Iranian journalist trying to find a serial killer who has been targeting sex workers in Iran’s holy city of Mashhad.
- 1/5/2023
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Iran released a prominent actress from an Oscar-winning film on Wednesday, nearly three weeks after she was jailed for criticizing a crackdown on anti-government protests, local reports said.
Iran’s semi-official Isna news agency said Taraneh Alidoosti, the 38-year-old star of Asghar Farhadi’s Oscar-winning 2016 film, “The Salesman,” was released on bail. Her mother, Nadere Hakimelahi, had earlier said she would be released in a post on Instagram.
After her release from the notorious Evin Prison in Tehran on Wednesday, Alidoosti posed with bunches of flowers, surrounded by friends. No further details have been released about her case.
Alidoosti was among several Iranian celebrities to express support for the nationwide protests and criticize the authorities’ violent clampdown on dissent. She had posted at least three messages in support of the protests on Instagram before her account was disabled.
One message had expressed solidarity with the first man to be executed...
Iran’s semi-official Isna news agency said Taraneh Alidoosti, the 38-year-old star of Asghar Farhadi’s Oscar-winning 2016 film, “The Salesman,” was released on bail. Her mother, Nadere Hakimelahi, had earlier said she would be released in a post on Instagram.
After her release from the notorious Evin Prison in Tehran on Wednesday, Alidoosti posed with bunches of flowers, surrounded by friends. No further details have been released about her case.
Alidoosti was among several Iranian celebrities to express support for the nationwide protests and criticize the authorities’ violent clampdown on dissent. She had posted at least three messages in support of the protests on Instagram before her account was disabled.
One message had expressed solidarity with the first man to be executed...
- 1/4/2023
- by Anita Tai
- ET Canada
One of Iran’s top actors has been freed from prison more than two weeks after being jailed for speaking out against a crackdown on anti-government protests.
Taraneh Alidoosti was released on Wednesday afternoon from Tehran’s Evin Prison. Her mother, Nadere Hakimelahi, had earlier said she would be let out in a post on Instagram and it was reported by the semi-official Isna news agency.
Alidoosti was the female lead in Asghar Farhadi’s Oscar-winning 2016 film The Salesman. She was arrested at her home 17 December after she spoke out publicly about the execution of Mohsen Shekari, a 23-year-old charged with injuring a member of Iran’s security forces during a protest.
Shekari was executed on 9 December after being charged by an Iranian court with blocking a street in Tehran and attacking a member of the security forces with a machete. A week later, Iran executed a second prisoner, Majidreza Rahnavard,...
Taraneh Alidoosti was released on Wednesday afternoon from Tehran’s Evin Prison. Her mother, Nadere Hakimelahi, had earlier said she would be let out in a post on Instagram and it was reported by the semi-official Isna news agency.
Alidoosti was the female lead in Asghar Farhadi’s Oscar-winning 2016 film The Salesman. She was arrested at her home 17 December after she spoke out publicly about the execution of Mohsen Shekari, a 23-year-old charged with injuring a member of Iran’s security forces during a protest.
Shekari was executed on 9 December after being charged by an Iranian court with blocking a street in Tehran and attacking a member of the security forces with a machete. A week later, Iran executed a second prisoner, Majidreza Rahnavard,...
- 1/4/2023
- by Borzou Daragahi
- The Independent - Film
Taraneh Alidoosti, the Iranian actress and star of Asghar Faradi‘s Oscar-winning The Salesman has been released from prison after posting bail. Alidoosti’s mother, Nadereh Hakim Elahi, posted images of her daughter outside Tehran’s Evin Prison shortly after her release.
Alidoosti was detained Dec. 17 after she posted her support of nationwide anti-government protests. Several major film festivals and film industry organizations — including the Screen Actors Guild, the European Film Academy, and the Cannes, Berlin, Rotterdam and Tribeca film festivals — condemned her arrest.
Hundreds of artists worldwide, including such Hollywood A-listers as Mark Ruffalo, Penélope Cruz, Jason Momoa, Emma Thompson and Kate Winslet, signed a petition protesting calling for her release.
The Iranian government has been sharply criticized for its brutal crackdown on protestors and those who support them, a crackdown that has included the public execution of some charged with alleged crimes related to the demonstrations.
Iran has...
Alidoosti was detained Dec. 17 after she posted her support of nationwide anti-government protests. Several major film festivals and film industry organizations — including the Screen Actors Guild, the European Film Academy, and the Cannes, Berlin, Rotterdam and Tribeca film festivals — condemned her arrest.
Hundreds of artists worldwide, including such Hollywood A-listers as Mark Ruffalo, Penélope Cruz, Jason Momoa, Emma Thompson and Kate Winslet, signed a petition protesting calling for her release.
The Iranian government has been sharply criticized for its brutal crackdown on protestors and those who support them, a crackdown that has included the public execution of some charged with alleged crimes related to the demonstrations.
Iran has...
- 1/4/2023
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Alidoosti’s temporary release was confirmed by her lawyer.
Iranian actor Taraneh Alidoosti is to be released from prison after posting bail, following her arrest on December 17 of last year on charges of “spreading falsehoods” about the protest movement that has spread throughout Iran.
Alidoosti is a frequent collaborator of Asghar Farhadi and starred in his Oscar-winning film The Salesman. Her lawyer Zahra Minooei tweeted about the temporary release of Alidoosti earlier today (January 4): “Today, my client Ms. Taraneh Alidoosti will be released from Evin Prison after posting bail.”
Alidoosti’s mother, Nadereh Hakim Elahi, also confirmed her release via an Instagram story.
Iranian actor Taraneh Alidoosti is to be released from prison after posting bail, following her arrest on December 17 of last year on charges of “spreading falsehoods” about the protest movement that has spread throughout Iran.
Alidoosti is a frequent collaborator of Asghar Farhadi and starred in his Oscar-winning film The Salesman. Her lawyer Zahra Minooei tweeted about the temporary release of Alidoosti earlier today (January 4): “Today, my client Ms. Taraneh Alidoosti will be released from Evin Prison after posting bail.”
Alidoosti’s mother, Nadereh Hakim Elahi, also confirmed her release via an Instagram story.
- 1/4/2023
- by Mona Tabbara
- ScreenDaily
Taraneh Alidoosti, the star of the Oscar-winning film “The Salesman,” has been released on bail from Evin Prison.
The news was revealed in a Wednesday morning Instagram story by Alidoosti’s mother Nadereh Hakim Elahi. Alidoosti’s attorney, Zahra Minooei also confirmed the news in a tweet, writing: “Today, my client Ms. Taraneh Alidoosti will be released from Evin Prison after posting bail.”
Alidoosti was arrested in December for “spreading falsehoods” about the widespread protests in the nation. The Islamic Republic News Agency reported that the 38-year-old was detained after expressing solidarity with Mohsen Shekari, a protestor who was executed on Dec. 9 after being accused of being a “rioter” who wounded a member of a paramilitary force with a machete.
“His name was Mohsen Shekari,” Alidoosti wrote in an Instagram post prior to her arrest. “Every international organization who is watching this bloodshed and not taking action, is a disgrace to humanity.
The news was revealed in a Wednesday morning Instagram story by Alidoosti’s mother Nadereh Hakim Elahi. Alidoosti’s attorney, Zahra Minooei also confirmed the news in a tweet, writing: “Today, my client Ms. Taraneh Alidoosti will be released from Evin Prison after posting bail.”
Alidoosti was arrested in December for “spreading falsehoods” about the widespread protests in the nation. The Islamic Republic News Agency reported that the 38-year-old was detained after expressing solidarity with Mohsen Shekari, a protestor who was executed on Dec. 9 after being accused of being a “rioter” who wounded a member of a paramilitary force with a machete.
“His name was Mohsen Shekari,” Alidoosti wrote in an Instagram post prior to her arrest. “Every international organization who is watching this bloodshed and not taking action, is a disgrace to humanity.
- 1/4/2023
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
Acclaimed Iranian actress Taraneh Alidoosti has been released from prison.
Alidoosti’s mother, Nadereh Hakim Elahi, announced the news via an Instagram story posted Wednesday morning. The actor’s attorney, Zahra Minooei, also shared the news on Twitter. In the post, Minooei said: “Today, my client Ms. Taraneh Alidoosti will be released from Evin Prison after posting bail.”
Alidoosti, one of the nation’s most prominent actresses and star of the 2022 Cannes Competition Title Leila’s Brothers, was arrested on December 17 2022, days after she criticized the Iranian state’s use of the death penalty against protesters. The actress has been daringly vocal in her support of freedom protests sparked by the death in police custody of 22-year-old Kurdish-Iranian woman Mahsa Amini in September.
In early November, she posted a picture of herself without a headscarf on her Instagram account, holding a piece of paper reading ‘women, life, freedom.’ A few days later,...
Alidoosti’s mother, Nadereh Hakim Elahi, announced the news via an Instagram story posted Wednesday morning. The actor’s attorney, Zahra Minooei, also shared the news on Twitter. In the post, Minooei said: “Today, my client Ms. Taraneh Alidoosti will be released from Evin Prison after posting bail.”
Alidoosti, one of the nation’s most prominent actresses and star of the 2022 Cannes Competition Title Leila’s Brothers, was arrested on December 17 2022, days after she criticized the Iranian state’s use of the death penalty against protesters. The actress has been daringly vocal in her support of freedom protests sparked by the death in police custody of 22-year-old Kurdish-Iranian woman Mahsa Amini in September.
In early November, she posted a picture of herself without a headscarf on her Instagram account, holding a piece of paper reading ‘women, life, freedom.’ A few days later,...
- 1/4/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
Iranian actor Taraneh Alidoosti (“The Salesman”) is being released on bail from Evin Prison.
Nadereh Hakim Elahi, Alidoosti’s mother, revealed her release via an Instagram post.
The actor’s attorney, Zahra Minooei, tweeted about her release, saying: “Today, my client Ms. Taraneh Alidoosti will be released from Evin Prison after posting bail.”
The actor, who starred in four films directed by Asghar Farhadi, was jailed Dec. 17 after taking part in demonstrations to fight against the oppressive Iranian regime. She was also sanctioned for standing in solidarity with imprisoned Iranian filmmakers, notably Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof.
Over 600 artists around the world had signed a petition urging Iran to release the actor.
In an online campaign launched under the title “Justice for Taraneh Alidousti,” Mark Ruffalo, Pedro Almodovar, Penelope Cruz, Juliette Binoche, Alfonso Cuaron, Ken Loach Emma Thompson, Jason Momoa, Jeremy Irons, Kate Winslet, Marion Cotillard, Ian McKellen and Isabelle Huppert...
Nadereh Hakim Elahi, Alidoosti’s mother, revealed her release via an Instagram post.
The actor’s attorney, Zahra Minooei, tweeted about her release, saying: “Today, my client Ms. Taraneh Alidoosti will be released from Evin Prison after posting bail.”
The actor, who starred in four films directed by Asghar Farhadi, was jailed Dec. 17 after taking part in demonstrations to fight against the oppressive Iranian regime. She was also sanctioned for standing in solidarity with imprisoned Iranian filmmakers, notably Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof.
Over 600 artists around the world had signed a petition urging Iran to release the actor.
In an online campaign launched under the title “Justice for Taraneh Alidousti,” Mark Ruffalo, Pedro Almodovar, Penelope Cruz, Juliette Binoche, Alfonso Cuaron, Ken Loach Emma Thompson, Jason Momoa, Jeremy Irons, Kate Winslet, Marion Cotillard, Ian McKellen and Isabelle Huppert...
- 1/4/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
SAG-AFTRA and the advertising industry’s Joint Policy Committee have agreed to extend their Covid testing and safety protocols until March 31. First adopted on April 16, 2021, the protocols had been set to expire on December 31.
“Since the protocols were implemented, they have proven extremely effective in protecting cast and crew from undue Covid risk in the workplace,” the union and the Jpc said in a joint statement.
Read all the commercial protocols here.
Related Story SAG-AFTRA Surveying Members About Industry's Covid Vaccination Mandates & Other Issues Related Story Post-Christmas Bump: Los Angeles Covid Numbers Rising Rapidly With Most At Or Exceeding Recent Highs Related Story SAG-AFTRA Condemns Arrest Of Iranian Actress Taraneh Alidoosti
The protocols, which apply “to all individuals present on a commercial covered under the 2019 SAG-AFTRA Commercials Contract,” include provisions for Covid testing during and prior to employment; once-a-day temperature checks; social distancing; employer-provided personal protective equipment, and the presence...
“Since the protocols were implemented, they have proven extremely effective in protecting cast and crew from undue Covid risk in the workplace,” the union and the Jpc said in a joint statement.
Read all the commercial protocols here.
Related Story SAG-AFTRA Surveying Members About Industry's Covid Vaccination Mandates & Other Issues Related Story Post-Christmas Bump: Los Angeles Covid Numbers Rising Rapidly With Most At Or Exceeding Recent Highs Related Story SAG-AFTRA Condemns Arrest Of Iranian Actress Taraneh Alidoosti
The protocols, which apply “to all individuals present on a commercial covered under the 2019 SAG-AFTRA Commercials Contract,” include provisions for Covid testing during and prior to employment; once-a-day temperature checks; social distancing; employer-provided personal protective equipment, and the presence...
- 1/3/2023
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
Robert De Niro is taking a stand for human rights.
On Friday the actor and Tribeca Festival co-founder Jane Rosenthal released a statement calling for the release of Iranian actress Taraneh Alidoosti from prison.
Read More: Two Iranian Actresses Arrested For Protesting Without Headscarves
The actress, who starred in the Oscar-winning “The Salesman” among many other films, was arrested last week in Iran for her support of the ongoing protests against the government following the killing of Mahsa Amini for not wearing her legally mandatory headscarf.
“We are deeply concerned for Taraneh’s safety and join film festivals, filmmakers, and artists around the world in calling for her release,” Tribeca said in a statement signed by De Niro and Rosenthal. “Tribeca commends Taraneh, a supporter of women’s rights, for her unfathomable bravery, defiantly speaking out against the Iranian government while not wearing a head covering. We, too, declare, ‘Woman,...
On Friday the actor and Tribeca Festival co-founder Jane Rosenthal released a statement calling for the release of Iranian actress Taraneh Alidoosti from prison.
Read More: Two Iranian Actresses Arrested For Protesting Without Headscarves
The actress, who starred in the Oscar-winning “The Salesman” among many other films, was arrested last week in Iran for her support of the ongoing protests against the government following the killing of Mahsa Amini for not wearing her legally mandatory headscarf.
“We are deeply concerned for Taraneh’s safety and join film festivals, filmmakers, and artists around the world in calling for her release,” Tribeca said in a statement signed by De Niro and Rosenthal. “Tribeca commends Taraneh, a supporter of women’s rights, for her unfathomable bravery, defiantly speaking out against the Iranian government while not wearing a head covering. We, too, declare, ‘Woman,...
- 12/23/2022
- by Corey Atad
- ET Canada
Robert Niro and his Tribeca Festival Co-Founder Jane Rosenthal have joined the chorus of calls for Iranian actress Taraneh Alidoosti to be released from prison, along with “other members of Iran’s art and entertainment community who have risked their lives to speak out against the government.”
Double Oscar winner De Niro is the highest profile person to have publicly chastized the Iranian regime for its behavior since Alidoosti’s arrest, joining the likes of Asghar Farhadi, SAG-AFTRA and various European Film Institutions and Festivals.
Alidoosti, one of the nation’s most prominent actresses and star of Cannes Competition Title Leila’s Brothers, was arrested and detained six days ago after expressing solidarity with anti-government demonstrators on Instagram where she posed without a headscarf. She had condemned those who did not speak out on the execution of protester Mohsen Shekari.
In a Tribeca statement in the past hour signed by De Niro and Rosenthal,...
Double Oscar winner De Niro is the highest profile person to have publicly chastized the Iranian regime for its behavior since Alidoosti’s arrest, joining the likes of Asghar Farhadi, SAG-AFTRA and various European Film Institutions and Festivals.
Alidoosti, one of the nation’s most prominent actresses and star of Cannes Competition Title Leila’s Brothers, was arrested and detained six days ago after expressing solidarity with anti-government demonstrators on Instagram where she posed without a headscarf. She had condemned those who did not speak out on the execution of protester Mohsen Shekari.
In a Tribeca statement in the past hour signed by De Niro and Rosenthal,...
- 12/23/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Good afternoon Insiders and a happy holiday to you all, Max Goldbart here seeing out the year. We’re inching slowly towards the holiday and have just got a quick summary of the week’s headlines and some Essentials for you this week. We’ll be taking a well-earned (we hope!) break next week but back all systems go on Friday January 6. Until then, our heartfelt thanks go out to all you Insider readers. We are nothing without you. Merry Xmas, Happy Chanukah and a Happy New Year.
BBC China woes: Don’t you dare tuck into your turkey without checking out this must-read exclusive investigation from Jake on how a little-known commercial BBC outfit has been producing ads for China’s propaganda machine. Jake’s in-depth exposé found BBC StoryWorks has partnered with at least 18 Chinese clients including Huawei since 2015. Within a day, lawmaker Lord David Alton, who is...
BBC China woes: Don’t you dare tuck into your turkey without checking out this must-read exclusive investigation from Jake on how a little-known commercial BBC outfit has been producing ads for China’s propaganda machine. Jake’s in-depth exposé found BBC StoryWorks has partnered with at least 18 Chinese clients including Huawei since 2015. Within a day, lawmaker Lord David Alton, who is...
- 12/23/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
SAG-AFTRA has condemned the arrest by the Iranian government of Taraneh Alidoosti, the internationally acclaimed actress who starred in the Oscar-winning film The Salesman.
She was arrested for allegedly making “unsubstantiated comments about recent events” after expressing solidarity on social media with protests that have been sweeping the country. She also called on the international community to act. According to human rights activists, almost 500 people have been killed and more than 18,000 arrested since the protests began.
“Alidoosti’s arrest follows death sentences and executions of protesters, as well as the arrests of prominent Iranians, including actors Hengameh Ghaziani and Katayoun Rishi, as the nation ramps up its human rights abuses against its own people,” the guild said in a statement. “We salute the bravery of Alidoosti, Ghaziani and Rishi, and the countless activists who risk everything for the right to live their lives free from oppression. They show us that,...
She was arrested for allegedly making “unsubstantiated comments about recent events” after expressing solidarity on social media with protests that have been sweeping the country. She also called on the international community to act. According to human rights activists, almost 500 people have been killed and more than 18,000 arrested since the protests began.
“Alidoosti’s arrest follows death sentences and executions of protesters, as well as the arrests of prominent Iranians, including actors Hengameh Ghaziani and Katayoun Rishi, as the nation ramps up its human rights abuses against its own people,” the guild said in a statement. “We salute the bravery of Alidoosti, Ghaziani and Rishi, and the countless activists who risk everything for the right to live their lives free from oppression. They show us that,...
- 12/22/2022
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
The Amsterdam-based International Coalition For Filmmakers At Risk (Icfr) has issued a statement protesting the arrest of Iranian actress Taraneh Alidoosti and demanding her immediate and unconditional release.
The body, created in 2019 to advocate for cinema professionals at risk of political persecution, was joined by founding partners, the International Film Festival Rotterdam, International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam and European Film Academy, together with the German Film Academy and the Berlin Film Festival.
“We declare our full and heartfelt solidarity with all those in Iran who stand up for their basic human rights and the freedom of expression and call on the Iranian authorities to immediately and unconditionally release Taraneh Alidoosti and her colleagues,” They said. “We encourage all film and culture institutions around the world to do the same.
Alidoosti, who is one of Iran’s most celebrated contemporary actresses, was arrested over the weekend.
The actress, whose credits include...
The body, created in 2019 to advocate for cinema professionals at risk of political persecution, was joined by founding partners, the International Film Festival Rotterdam, International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam and European Film Academy, together with the German Film Academy and the Berlin Film Festival.
“We declare our full and heartfelt solidarity with all those in Iran who stand up for their basic human rights and the freedom of expression and call on the Iranian authorities to immediately and unconditionally release Taraneh Alidoosti and her colleagues,” They said. “We encourage all film and culture institutions around the world to do the same.
Alidoosti, who is one of Iran’s most celebrated contemporary actresses, was arrested over the weekend.
The actress, whose credits include...
- 12/21/2022
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Several of Europe’s key film organizations, including the European Film Academy, the German Film Academy, the International Coalition for Filmmakers at Risk, and the Berlin and Rotterdam film festivals issued a joint statement on Wednesday protesting the arrest of Iranian actress Taraneh Alidoosti and calling for her immediate release.
The Salesman star, one of the most famous faces of Iranian cinema, was detained on Saturday, Dec. 17 after posting messages on social media expressing solidarity with the antigovernment protests that have rocked Iran since September.
“The imprisonment of Taraneh, of one of Iran’s most famous performers, sends a clear signal to celebrities [that the Iranian regime] will not tolerate any challenge to its rapidly crumbling authority,” said Efa chair Mike Downey in the statement. “We call on Iranian authorities to put an end to the arbitrary detentions. The Iranian people are being denied fundamental freedoms, among them expression and peaceful assembly.
Several of Europe’s key film organizations, including the European Film Academy, the German Film Academy, the International Coalition for Filmmakers at Risk, and the Berlin and Rotterdam film festivals issued a joint statement on Wednesday protesting the arrest of Iranian actress Taraneh Alidoosti and calling for her immediate release.
The Salesman star, one of the most famous faces of Iranian cinema, was detained on Saturday, Dec. 17 after posting messages on social media expressing solidarity with the antigovernment protests that have rocked Iran since September.
“The imprisonment of Taraneh, of one of Iran’s most famous performers, sends a clear signal to celebrities [that the Iranian regime] will not tolerate any challenge to its rapidly crumbling authority,” said Efa chair Mike Downey in the statement. “We call on Iranian authorities to put an end to the arbitrary detentions. The Iranian people are being denied fundamental freedoms, among them expression and peaceful assembly.
- 12/21/2022
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Berlinale, Rotterdam, IDFA and the European Film Academy, among other key orgs, have issued a joint statement on Dec. 21 to protest against the arrest of Taraneh Alidoosti, the beloved actor of the Oscar-nominated “The Salesman,” in Iran.
The orgs, which also include International Coalition for Filmmakers at Risk and the German Film Academy, are demanding the “immediate and unconditional release” of Alidoosti. The actor, who starred in four films directed by Farhadi, was jailed last Saturday (Dec. 17) after taking part in demonstrations to fight against the oppressive Iranian regime. She was also sanctioned for standing in solidarity with imprisoned Iranian filmmakers, notably Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof.
“The imprisonment of Taraneh, of one of Iran’s most famous performers sends a clear signal to celebrities it will not tolerate any challenge to its rapidly crumbling authority,” said Efa Chair, Mike Downey, “We call on Iranian authorities to put an end to the arbitrary detentions.
The orgs, which also include International Coalition for Filmmakers at Risk and the German Film Academy, are demanding the “immediate and unconditional release” of Alidoosti. The actor, who starred in four films directed by Farhadi, was jailed last Saturday (Dec. 17) after taking part in demonstrations to fight against the oppressive Iranian regime. She was also sanctioned for standing in solidarity with imprisoned Iranian filmmakers, notably Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof.
“The imprisonment of Taraneh, of one of Iran’s most famous performers sends a clear signal to celebrities it will not tolerate any challenge to its rapidly crumbling authority,” said Efa Chair, Mike Downey, “We call on Iranian authorities to put an end to the arbitrary detentions.
- 12/21/2022
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Crime thriller stalwart also shot Croupier, Flash Gordon.
Mike Hodges, the British director known for gritty crime films such as Get Carter and Croupier, has died. He was 90.
According to reports Hodges passed away at his home in Dorset in the south of England on Saturday (December 17). The cause of death was unknown at time of writing.
Hodges was born in Bristol in 1932 and qualified as an accountant before joining the Navy. Some years later he found work as a teleprompter in television, worked on Granada Television’s World In Action investigative news series, and directed two shows for ITV Playhouse.
Mike Hodges, the British director known for gritty crime films such as Get Carter and Croupier, has died. He was 90.
According to reports Hodges passed away at his home in Dorset in the south of England on Saturday (December 17). The cause of death was unknown at time of writing.
Hodges was born in Bristol in 1932 and qualified as an accountant before joining the Navy. Some years later he found work as a teleprompter in television, worked on Granada Television’s World In Action investigative news series, and directed two shows for ITV Playhouse.
- 12/21/2022
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
“I stand with Taraneh and demand her release alongside that of my other fellow cineastes Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof,” said the filmmaker.
Iranian filmmaker Asghar Farhadi has issued a statement in support of Iranian actor Taraneh Alidoosti, in which he states: “I stand with Taraneh and demand her release”.
According to state media, Alidoosti has been arrested by Iranian authorities on charges of “spreading falsehoods” about the protest movement that has spread throughout the country.
Alidoosti starred in Farhadi’s Oscar-winning film The Salesman. His full statement (via Instagram) said: “I have worked with Taraneh on four films and...
Iranian filmmaker Asghar Farhadi has issued a statement in support of Iranian actor Taraneh Alidoosti, in which he states: “I stand with Taraneh and demand her release”.
According to state media, Alidoosti has been arrested by Iranian authorities on charges of “spreading falsehoods” about the protest movement that has spread throughout the country.
Alidoosti starred in Farhadi’s Oscar-winning film The Salesman. His full statement (via Instagram) said: “I have worked with Taraneh on four films and...
- 12/20/2022
- by Mona Tabbara
- ScreenDaily
Oscar-winning Iranian filmmaker Asghar Farhadi took to social media to protest against the arrest of Taraneh Alidoosti, the beloved actor of his Oscar-winning film “The Salesman.”
Alidoosti, who starred in three other films directed by Farhadi, was jailed on Saturday after taking part in demonstrations to fight against the oppressive Iranian regime. She was also sanctioned for standing in solidarity with imprisoned Iranian filmmakers, notably Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof.
“I have worked with Taraneh on four films and now she is in prison for her rightful support of her fellow countrymen and her opposition to the unjust sentences being issued,” Farhadi wrote on his Instagram account. “If showing such support is a crime, then tens of millions of people of this land are criminals,” he continued.
Farhadi said he “(stood) with Taraneh and (demanded) her release alongside that of his other fellow cineastes Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof and...
Alidoosti, who starred in three other films directed by Farhadi, was jailed on Saturday after taking part in demonstrations to fight against the oppressive Iranian regime. She was also sanctioned for standing in solidarity with imprisoned Iranian filmmakers, notably Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof.
“I have worked with Taraneh on four films and now she is in prison for her rightful support of her fellow countrymen and her opposition to the unjust sentences being issued,” Farhadi wrote on his Instagram account. “If showing such support is a crime, then tens of millions of people of this land are criminals,” he continued.
Farhadi said he “(stood) with Taraneh and (demanded) her release alongside that of his other fellow cineastes Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof and...
- 12/20/2022
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Oscar-winning director Asghar Farhadi has demanded the release of actress Taraneh Alidoosti, who was arrested in Iran.
In an Instagram post, Farhadi wrote: “I have worked with Taraneh on four films and now she is in prison for her rightful support of her fellow countrymen and her opposition to the unjust sentences being issued. If showing such support is a crime, then tens of millions of people of this land are criminals.”
Taraneh was reportedly detained after expressing solidarity with anti-government protestors in a social media post on charges of “spreading falsehoods” relating to the protest movement. Before her social media was switched off, she had condemned people who had not spoken out against the execution of human rights activist Mohsen Shekari.
Farhadi directed Alidoosti in The Salesman, which won the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film in 2017, and has worked with her on several other films.
Alidoosti was at...
In an Instagram post, Farhadi wrote: “I have worked with Taraneh on four films and now she is in prison for her rightful support of her fellow countrymen and her opposition to the unjust sentences being issued. If showing such support is a crime, then tens of millions of people of this land are criminals.”
Taraneh was reportedly detained after expressing solidarity with anti-government protestors in a social media post on charges of “spreading falsehoods” relating to the protest movement. Before her social media was switched off, she had condemned people who had not spoken out against the execution of human rights activist Mohsen Shekari.
Farhadi directed Alidoosti in The Salesman, which won the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film in 2017, and has worked with her on several other films.
Alidoosti was at...
- 12/20/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Oscar-winning Iranian director Asghar Farhadi says he “stands with” his The Salesman and About Elly star Taraneh Alidoosti after the actress was arrested over the weekend.
Iranian state media reported that Alidoosti was detained after she posted a comment on Instagram expressing solidarity with Mohsen Shekari, the first person to have been officially executed by the Tehran regime for crimes allegedly committed during the anti-government protests that have shaken Iran for months.
In a post on his official Instagram account, Farhadi called out Alidoosti’s arrest, saying if “showing support [for protestors] is a crime, tens of millions of people of this land are criminals.” He called on the authorities to release her, along with Iranian directors Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof, “and all the other lesser-known prisoners whose only crime is the attempt for a better life.”
View this post on Instagram
A post...
Oscar-winning Iranian director Asghar Farhadi says he “stands with” his The Salesman and About Elly star Taraneh Alidoosti after the actress was arrested over the weekend.
Iranian state media reported that Alidoosti was detained after she posted a comment on Instagram expressing solidarity with Mohsen Shekari, the first person to have been officially executed by the Tehran regime for crimes allegedly committed during the anti-government protests that have shaken Iran for months.
In a post on his official Instagram account, Farhadi called out Alidoosti’s arrest, saying if “showing support [for protestors] is a crime, tens of millions of people of this land are criminals.” He called on the authorities to release her, along with Iranian directors Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof, “and all the other lesser-known prisoners whose only crime is the attempt for a better life.”
View this post on Instagram
A post...
- 12/20/2022
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Iranian filmmakers are secretly filming dual versions of scenes from their movies in anticipation of a regime change after months of protests against hard-line Islamic rule in their country.
The hijab-free scenes – where actresses are portrayed without the head covering that is mandatory for women in the country – are part of a widespread protest movement in Iran sparked after Masha Amin’s death in police custody in September.
The 22-year-old woman had been arrested by Iran’s controversial ‘morality policy’ after being told she was not wearing her head-covering correctly. Iranian authorities claim she died of natural causes related to a heart condition; critics say she died after being beaten.
Her death sparked a wave of widespread protests that Iranian authorities have sought to suppress through an increasingly violent crackdown. At least 469 people, including 63 children and 32 women, have been killed by Iranian security and law enforcement officials, according to a new report published Dec.
The hijab-free scenes – where actresses are portrayed without the head covering that is mandatory for women in the country – are part of a widespread protest movement in Iran sparked after Masha Amin’s death in police custody in September.
The 22-year-old woman had been arrested by Iran’s controversial ‘morality policy’ after being told she was not wearing her head-covering correctly. Iranian authorities claim she died of natural causes related to a heart condition; critics say she died after being beaten.
Her death sparked a wave of widespread protests that Iranian authorities have sought to suppress through an increasingly violent crackdown. At least 469 people, including 63 children and 32 women, have been killed by Iranian security and law enforcement officials, according to a new report published Dec.
- 12/19/2022
- by Nick Holdsworth
- Variety Film + TV
Alidoosti was detained a week after protesting execution on Instagram.
Iranian authorities have arrested one of the country’s most famous actors, Taraneh Alidoosti, who is best known for her role in Oscar-winning film The Salesman.
Alidoosti was arrested on charges of “spreading falsehoods” about the protest movement that has spread throughout the country, according to state media.
Alidoosti was detained a week after she made a post on Instagram expressing solidarity with Mohsen Shekari, who was executed earlier this month.
He was hanged by authorities after they accused him of being a rioter who blocked a main road in...
Iranian authorities have arrested one of the country’s most famous actors, Taraneh Alidoosti, who is best known for her role in Oscar-winning film The Salesman.
Alidoosti was arrested on charges of “spreading falsehoods” about the protest movement that has spread throughout the country, according to state media.
Alidoosti was detained a week after she made a post on Instagram expressing solidarity with Mohsen Shekari, who was executed earlier this month.
He was hanged by authorities after they accused him of being a rioter who blocked a main road in...
- 12/19/2022
- by Tim Dams
- ScreenDaily
We have just learned of the arrest of the great Iranian actress Taraneh Alidoosti, for her support of the protests following the death of Mahsa Amini.
She is the lead actress in the film “Leila and her Brothers” by Saeed Roustaee, Fipresci Cannes 2022 award.
She was a member of the jury of the 20th Festival International des Cinémas d’Asie de Vesoul 2014, chaired by Brillante Mendoza.
Talented actress she has won many awards in international festivals
She has worked with the greatest Iranian directors including Ashgar Farhadi, Mani Haghighi, …
The Festival International des Cinemas d’Asie of Vesoul supports this activist for human rights.
She is the lead actress in the film “Leila and her Brothers” by Saeed Roustaee, Fipresci Cannes 2022 award.
She was a member of the jury of the 20th Festival International des Cinémas d’Asie de Vesoul 2014, chaired by Brillante Mendoza.
Talented actress she has won many awards in international festivals
She has worked with the greatest Iranian directors including Ashgar Farhadi, Mani Haghighi, …
The Festival International des Cinemas d’Asie of Vesoul supports this activist for human rights.
- 12/18/2022
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Iranian actress Taraneh Alidoosti has been detained on charges of “spreading falsehoods” regarding the country’s ongoing protest movement. The BBC reported that Alidoosti condemned the country’s recent execution of Mohsen Shekari for his involvement in protests. The actor made her statements through a now-deleted post on Instagram, reports Variety.
“His name was Mohsen Shekari. Every international organisation who is watching this bloodshed and not taking action is a disgrace to humanity,” Alidoosti wrote.
The actor was arrested after being unable to produce “any documents in line with her claims,” according to state media. Alidoosti’s Instagram account, which possessed about eight million followers, has since been taken down.
Variety reports that Shekari was hanged earlier this month after being accused of blocking a main road in Tehran and wounding a military officer with a machete. Shekari was found guilty by a Revolutionary Court of fighting and drawing a...
“His name was Mohsen Shekari. Every international organisation who is watching this bloodshed and not taking action is a disgrace to humanity,” Alidoosti wrote.
The actor was arrested after being unable to produce “any documents in line with her claims,” according to state media. Alidoosti’s Instagram account, which possessed about eight million followers, has since been taken down.
Variety reports that Shekari was hanged earlier this month after being accused of blocking a main road in Tehran and wounding a military officer with a machete. Shekari was found guilty by a Revolutionary Court of fighting and drawing a...
- 12/18/2022
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
Taraneh Alidoosti, the star of the Oscar-winning film “The Salesman” and one of the most prominent Iranian actresses working today, has reportedly been arrested by Iranian authorities on charges of spreading falsehoods. The news was first announced by Iranian state media agency Irna and reported by the Associated Press.
Iran has been engulfed in protests for the past several months, beginning when a 22-year-old woman named Mahsa Amini was killed by police for not adhering to strict rules that require women to cover their heads at all times. Several other protestors have been executed in the subsequent months, including Mohsen Shekari, a 23-year-old man accused of blocking a street while protesting.
Alidoosti had used her personal Instagram account (which has since been deleted but once had over 8 million followers) to express solidarity with the protesters. She condemned the execution of Shekari and posted a controversial photo of herself without a headscarf.
Iran has been engulfed in protests for the past several months, beginning when a 22-year-old woman named Mahsa Amini was killed by police for not adhering to strict rules that require women to cover their heads at all times. Several other protestors have been executed in the subsequent months, including Mohsen Shekari, a 23-year-old man accused of blocking a street while protesting.
Alidoosti had used her personal Instagram account (which has since been deleted but once had over 8 million followers) to express solidarity with the protesters. She condemned the execution of Shekari and posted a controversial photo of herself without a headscarf.
- 12/17/2022
- by Christian Zilko
- Indiewire
Iranian actress Taraneh Alidoosti, the star of the Oscar-winning film “The Salesman,” was arrested by local authorities Saturday on charges of “spreading falsehoods” about nationwide protests in the country, the Associated Press reported.
AP cited a report from The Islamic Republic News Agency, which said the 38-year-old was detained after expressing solidarity with Mohsen Shekari, a protestor who was executed on Dec. 9 after being accused of being a “rioter” who wounded a member of a paramilitary force with a machete.
“His name was Mohsen Shekari,” Alidoosti wrote in an Instagram post. “Every international organization who is watching this bloodshed and not taking action, is a disgrace to humanity.”
Also Read:
Iranian Activist Masih Alinejad Calls on World to ‘Take to the Streets and Show Your Solidarity’ (Video)
According to the state media’s Telegram channel, Alidoosti was arrested for not providing ”any documents in line with her claims.″ The Irna...
AP cited a report from The Islamic Republic News Agency, which said the 38-year-old was detained after expressing solidarity with Mohsen Shekari, a protestor who was executed on Dec. 9 after being accused of being a “rioter” who wounded a member of a paramilitary force with a machete.
“His name was Mohsen Shekari,” Alidoosti wrote in an Instagram post. “Every international organization who is watching this bloodshed and not taking action, is a disgrace to humanity.”
Also Read:
Iranian Activist Masih Alinejad Calls on World to ‘Take to the Streets and Show Your Solidarity’ (Video)
According to the state media’s Telegram channel, Alidoosti was arrested for not providing ”any documents in line with her claims.″ The Irna...
- 12/17/2022
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
Taraneh Alidoosti, one of Iran’s most renowned actors, was detained on charges of “spreading falsehoods” regarding the country’s ongoing protest movement, according to state media.
The BBC reported that Alidoosti condemned the country’s recent execution of Mohsen Shekarim for his involvement with protests. The actor made her statements through a now-deleted post on Instagram.
“His name was Mohsen Shekari. Every international organisation who is watching this bloodshed and not taking action is a disgrace to humanity,” Alidoosti wrote. The actor was arrested after being unable to produce “any documents in line with her claims,” according to state media. Alidoosti’s Instagram account, which possessed about eight million followers, has since been taken down.
Shekari was hanged earlier this month after being accused of blocking a main road in Tehran and wounding a military officer with a machete. Shekari was found guilty by a Revolutionary Court of fighting...
The BBC reported that Alidoosti condemned the country’s recent execution of Mohsen Shekarim for his involvement with protests. The actor made her statements through a now-deleted post on Instagram.
“His name was Mohsen Shekari. Every international organisation who is watching this bloodshed and not taking action is a disgrace to humanity,” Alidoosti wrote. The actor was arrested after being unable to produce “any documents in line with her claims,” according to state media. Alidoosti’s Instagram account, which possessed about eight million followers, has since been taken down.
Shekari was hanged earlier this month after being accused of blocking a main road in Tehran and wounding a military officer with a machete. Shekari was found guilty by a Revolutionary Court of fighting...
- 12/17/2022
- by J. Kim Murphy
- Variety Film + TV
Iranian authorities have arrested Taraneh Alidoosti, one of the country’s best known actresses, after she expressed solidarity with anti-government demonstrators in a social media post.
The BBC, quoting an Iranian state media agency, reported Alidoosti was detained on charges of “spreading falsehoods” about the protest movement that has gripped the country, state media said. In an Instagram post last week, she condemned the execution of a man over his involvement with the protests.
She has been a frequent thorn in the regime’s side. Earlier, she posted an Instagram photo without a headscarf, a garment required in the Islamic Republic. It was done in solidarity with widespread anti-government protests sparked by the death in police custody of a 22-year-old Kurdish-Iranian woman, Mahsa Amini, for not wearing a headscarf in public.
Alidoosti is the latest member of the Iranian arts and entertainment community to be detained. The list includes filmmakers Jafar Panahi,...
The BBC, quoting an Iranian state media agency, reported Alidoosti was detained on charges of “spreading falsehoods” about the protest movement that has gripped the country, state media said. In an Instagram post last week, she condemned the execution of a man over his involvement with the protests.
She has been a frequent thorn in the regime’s side. Earlier, she posted an Instagram photo without a headscarf, a garment required in the Islamic Republic. It was done in solidarity with widespread anti-government protests sparked by the death in police custody of a 22-year-old Kurdish-Iranian woman, Mahsa Amini, for not wearing a headscarf in public.
Alidoosti is the latest member of the Iranian arts and entertainment community to be detained. The list includes filmmakers Jafar Panahi,...
- 12/17/2022
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Iranian officials have arrested two of its prominent actors, Hengameh Ghaziani and Katayoun Riahi, for removing their headscarves and publicly supporting anti-government protests.
Ghaziani and Riahi are well-known Iranian actors with a large fan following.
Iran has experienced widespread protests in recent months over the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old who was arrested by the so-called “morality police” after being accused of wearing her hijab inappropriately.
The BBC reports that Ghaziani and Riahi were detained when they appeared in the public without their headscarves on 20 November.
Before her arrest, Ghaziani wrote on social media that “whatever happens, know that as always I will stand with the people of Iran”.
She added: “This may be my last post.”
At least 410 protestors have been killed in the unending demonstrations in Iran as of 19 November in the Khamenei administration-led crackdown on protests, said Human Rights Activists News Agency (Hrana), a...
Ghaziani and Riahi are well-known Iranian actors with a large fan following.
Iran has experienced widespread protests in recent months over the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old who was arrested by the so-called “morality police” after being accused of wearing her hijab inappropriately.
The BBC reports that Ghaziani and Riahi were detained when they appeared in the public without their headscarves on 20 November.
Before her arrest, Ghaziani wrote on social media that “whatever happens, know that as always I will stand with the people of Iran”.
She added: “This may be my last post.”
At least 410 protestors have been killed in the unending demonstrations in Iran as of 19 November in the Khamenei administration-led crackdown on protests, said Human Rights Activists News Agency (Hrana), a...
- 11/21/2022
- by Peony Hirwani and Arpan Rai
- The Independent - Film
Popular Iranian actors Hengameh Ghaziani and Katayoun Riahi have been arrested and imprisoned in Iran after they appeared in public and on social media having removed their headscarves in a bold act of defiance and protest against the death of Mahsa Amini.
Iran’s state-run Irna news agency said that Ghaziani and Riahi are now both behind bars after being summoned by the country’s prosecutors in a probe due to “provocative” social media posts.
Ghaziani, a film and theater actor who has won many acting accolades in Iran, on Saturday published a powerful video of herself on Instagram removing her hijab and walking proudly in a Tehran street.
“Maybe this will be my last post,” she wrote. “From this moment on, whatever happens to me, know that as always, I am with the Iranian people until my last breath.”
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Hengameh Ghaziani (@hengamehghaziani)
Riahi,...
Iran’s state-run Irna news agency said that Ghaziani and Riahi are now both behind bars after being summoned by the country’s prosecutors in a probe due to “provocative” social media posts.
Ghaziani, a film and theater actor who has won many acting accolades in Iran, on Saturday published a powerful video of herself on Instagram removing her hijab and walking proudly in a Tehran street.
“Maybe this will be my last post,” she wrote. “From this moment on, whatever happens to me, know that as always, I am with the Iranian people until my last breath.”
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Hengameh Ghaziani (@hengamehghaziani)
Riahi,...
- 11/21/2022
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Protests have been ongoing since 22-year-old Mahsa Amini’s death in police custody in September.
Iranian actors Hengameh Ghaziani and Katayoun Riahi have been arrested after expressing solidarity with the protest movement and removing their headscarves in public, as reported by state media on Sunday (November 20).
Ghaziani and Riahi were detained after prosecutors probed their social media posts, according to state-run Irna news agency.
Ghaziani, star of 2008’s As Simple As That and and 2012’s Days Of Life, has been a vocal critic on the crackdown on protestors, and was arrested for inciting and supporting the “riots” and for communication with opposition media,...
Iranian actors Hengameh Ghaziani and Katayoun Riahi have been arrested after expressing solidarity with the protest movement and removing their headscarves in public, as reported by state media on Sunday (November 20).
Ghaziani and Riahi were detained after prosecutors probed their social media posts, according to state-run Irna news agency.
Ghaziani, star of 2008’s As Simple As That and and 2012’s Days Of Life, has been a vocal critic on the crackdown on protestors, and was arrested for inciting and supporting the “riots” and for communication with opposition media,...
- 11/21/2022
- by Mona Tabbara
- ScreenDaily
Iran has arrested two prominent actresses who removed their headscarves in public to show support for the ongoing protest movement calling for freedom for women, sparked by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in custody last September.
According to multiple reports citing state media, Hengameh Ghaziani and Katayoun Riahi were detained after being summoned by prosecutors and are accused of collusion and acting against Iran’s authorities.
Ghaziani, an award-winner for 2008’s As Simple as That and 2012’s Days of Life, has been a vocal critic of the crackdown on protesters. She wrote in an Instagram message this weekend, “Maybe this will be my last post. From this moment on, whatever happens to me, know that as always, I am with Iranian people until my last breath.”
The accompanying video shows Ghaziani turning her back on camera and wrapping her uncovered hair into a ponytail, a gesture which has come...
According to multiple reports citing state media, Hengameh Ghaziani and Katayoun Riahi were detained after being summoned by prosecutors and are accused of collusion and acting against Iran’s authorities.
Ghaziani, an award-winner for 2008’s As Simple as That and 2012’s Days of Life, has been a vocal critic of the crackdown on protesters. She wrote in an Instagram message this weekend, “Maybe this will be my last post. From this moment on, whatever happens to me, know that as always, I am with Iranian people until my last breath.”
The accompanying video shows Ghaziani turning her back on camera and wrapping her uncovered hair into a ponytail, a gesture which has come...
- 11/21/2022
- by Nancy Tartaglione and Melanie Goodfellow
- Deadline Film + TV
First feature to get a release will be Boonie Bears: Back To Earth in February.
China’s Fantawild Animation and new Netherlands-based distributor MovieCompany have struck a deal at AFM for the theatrical release across Benelux of three films in 2023 including latest instalments from the 600m-grossing Boonie Bears family franchise.
The first feature to get a release will be Boonie Bears: Back To Earth in February. The children’s animated adventures about a pair of bears grossed more than 150m in China earlier this year – Fantawild has targeted a Boonie Bears film release over Chinese New Year each year since...
China’s Fantawild Animation and new Netherlands-based distributor MovieCompany have struck a deal at AFM for the theatrical release across Benelux of three films in 2023 including latest instalments from the 600m-grossing Boonie Bears family franchise.
The first feature to get a release will be Boonie Bears: Back To Earth in February. The children’s animated adventures about a pair of bears grossed more than 150m in China earlier this year – Fantawild has targeted a Boonie Bears film release over Chinese New Year each year since...
- 11/10/2022
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
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