Abbas Kiarostami was an internationally acclaimed Iranian filmmaker known for his poetic and introspective approach to storytelling. His top films include “Taste of Cherry” (1997), which won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, “Close-Up” (1990), a mesmerizing blend of documentary and fiction, and “A Taste of Cherry” (1997), which won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, highlighting his mastery in exploring complex human emotions and philosophical themes.
Asghar Farhadi: Asghar is a highly regarded Iranian filmmaker known for his gripping and emotionally charged narratives that delve into the complexities of human relationships and societal dynamics. His top films include “A Separation” (2011), which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, and “The Salesman” (2016), which also received critical acclaim and earned him another Academy Award in the same category, solidifying his reputation as a master storyteller.
Jafar Panahi: Jafar Panahi is a prominent Iranian filmmaker known for his daring and socially conscious films, often challenging the restrictions imposed by the Iranian government. Despite being banned from filmmaking, he continues to create compelling works, including “Taxi Tehran” (2015), a thought-provoking and insightful film shot entirely inside a taxi, and “The Circle” (2000), a powerful exploration of the lives of women in Iran and the restrictions they face in society.
Majid Majidi: Majidi is an acclaimed Iranian director known for his poignant storytelling and his ability to capture the human spirit in his films. His top films include “Children of Heaven” (1997), a heartwarming tale of sibling love and determination, and “The Color of Paradise” (1999), a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film exploring the relationship between a blind boy and his father.
Mohsen Makhmalbaf:Mohsen Makhmalbaf is a highly influential Iranian filmmaker and writer known for his thought-provoking films that tackle social and political themes. His top films include “Gabbeh” (1996), a visually mesmerizing film that weaves folklore and reality together, and “Kandahar” (2001), a powerful exploration of life under Taliban rule and the struggles faced by Afghan women.
Samira Makhmalbaf:Samira Makhmalbaf is an accomplished Iranian filmmaker who gained recognition at a young age for her bold and socially conscious films. Her top films include “The Apple” (1998), a captivating story based on a real-life incident, and “Blackboards” (2000), a poignant exploration of the lives of Kurdish teachers and the impact of war on education.
Dariush Mehrjui: Dariush Mehrjui is a renowned Iranian filmmaker who played a significant role in the Iranian New Wave cinema. His top films include “The Cow” (1969), a groundbreaking film that explored themes of individuality and identity, and “Hamoun” (1990), a compelling drama that delves into the complexities of marital relationships and societal pressures.
Bahram Beizai: Beizai is known for his unique visual style and his exploration of Persian mythology and literature in his films. His notable works include “Bashu, the Little Stranger” and “The Travelers.”
Rakhshan Bani-Etemad: Rakhshan Bani-Etemad is a highly respected Irania#n filmmaker known for her socially conscious and realistic portrayal of contemporary Iranian society. Her top films include “Tales” (2014), a mosaic of interconnected stories that examine various aspects of Iranian society, and “Under the Skin of the City” (2001), a compelling drama that sheds light on the struggles of a working-class family in Tehran.
Marjane Satrapi: While born in Iran and having gained international acclaim for her graphic novel “Persepolis,” Satrapi later transitioned into filmmaking. Her directorial debut, “Persepolis,” an animated film based on her novel, received critical acclaim and was nominated for an Academy Award.
Tahmineh Milani
Tahmineh Milani is an influential Iranian filmmaker known for her socially conscious and feminist films, including “The Hidden Half” and “Two Women.”
Shirin Neshat
Shirin Neshat is an acclaimed Iranian artist and filmmaker renowned for her thought-provoking works that explore themes of identity, gender, and cultural complexities, utilizing striking visuals and poetic narratives.Since Iran has undermined basic human rights, particularly since the Islamic Revolution she has said that she has “gravitated toward making art that is concerned with tyranny, dictatorship, oppression and political injustice