Spirituality of Iran on film

Cinema Nouveau screened by Jameson and MTN is presenting the Iranian Film Festival 2007, starting at Brooklyn Mall, Pretoria, today, Friday, 9 February 2007. All the films are in Persian with English subtitles.

The festival will proceed to Cinema Nouveau screened by Jameson at Rosebank Mall in Johannesburg from next Friday, 16 February; V&A Waterfront in Cape Town (23 February – 1 March) and conclude at Gateway in Durban (2 - 8 March).

Following the Islamic Revolution, the Islamic Republic of Iran has increased the production of indigenous films from 25 in 1979 to 125 features in 2006. Films from Iran are acclaimed worldwide for their approach to culture and religion. The role of women is also very significant in Iranian cinema, with some of Iran’s most influential producers and directors being female.

This year’s selection includes the following eight films from contemporary Iran, exploring diverse and sometimes controversial subjects with a very spiritually-based perspective: The Fateful Day, Hemlock (Shokaran), Lost Time, Come, Sun is Setting, A Candle in the Wind, Tears of Cold, Pendar, and Mother.

Free tickets will be available at the box office on the day of the screening.