“The Seed of the Sacred Fig” is a fictional film that incorporates actual footage of political activism in Iran. The movie was made clandestinely, with the cast and crew fearing arrest due to the strict censorship system in place. Director Rasoulof continued filming despite receiving a prison sentence, eventually fleeing Iran to Germany to seek refuge. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, receiving critical acclaim and winning the Special Jury Prize.
Rasoulof hopes the film will provide American viewers with a more nuanced understanding of Iran, beyond what they may hear from politicians. He emphasizes that the Iranian people do not necessarily align with the oppressive regime in place and that there is a desire for peaceful relations with the rest of the world. Through the story of “The Seed of the Sacred Fig,” Rasoulof sheds light on the struggles faced by Iranian women and the younger generation’s aspirations for positive change.
The film, distributed by Neon, is now Germany’s entry for best international feature at the Academy Awards. Rasoulof’s daring escape from Iran and the success of the film at Cannes highlight the challenges faced by artists in oppressive regimes and the importance of sharing diverse perspectives on the global stage.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
