Directors Barrier Breakthrough in Iranian Cinema
The Berlin film festival has called on Tehran to allow two Iranian filmmakers who are facing travel bans to attend the event. Director Maryam Moghaddam, 52, and director Behtash Sanaeeha, 43, have been barred from attending the premiere of their new movie, “My Favourite Cake,” at the festival. The film explores the theme of women pursuing a normal life, which is considered a taboo in Iran. The directors have faced significant obstacles during the production of the film, including a raid on their editor’s place and the confiscation of project materials. Moghaddam described the past few months as the most stressful time of their lives.
Moghaddam and Sanaeeha highlighted the film’s exploration of forbidden topics in Iranian society, stating that it crosses numerous red lines that have been in place for 45 years. The story follows the bittersweet journey of Mahin, a 70-year-old retired nurse, who finds love in the late stages of her life. The film depicts scenes that are considered forbidden in Iran, such as a woman removing her hijab and consuming alcohol. Despite the risks involved, the directors felt it was essential to portray the reality of life in Iran.
