Iranian cinema, known for its poetic storytelling and rich cultural expressions, has gained international acclaim for its unique voice and profound narratives. Over the decades, Iranian filmmakers have produced a treasure trove of cinematic masterpieces that have captivated audiences worldwide. This article celebrates the best Iranian movies of all time and highlights the significance and impact of famous Iranian filmmakers on the global film industry.
1.A Separation (2011) – Jodaeiye Nader az Simin
Directed by Asghar Farhadi, “A Separation” (Jodaeiye Nader az Simin) is a compelling drama that delves into the complexities of family dynamics, societal expectations, and moral dilemmas. The film follows the story of a couple, Nader and Simin, on the brink of divorce. Simin wants to leave Iran to provide better opportunities for their daughter, while Nader is reluctant to leave his ailing father. The ensuing legal battle and its repercussions unravel the intricacies of truth and justice.
“A Separation” received widespread critical acclaim and won numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. It is praised for its nuanced characters, powerful performances, and thought-provoking narrative, which resonates with audiences worldwide. Thus, it is on the list of the best Iranian movies of all time.
2.Children of Heaven (1997) – Bacheha-ye Aseman
Directed by Majid Majidi, “Children of Heaven” (Bacheha-ye Aseman) is a heartwarming tale of sibling love and resilience. The film tells the story of Ali and his sister Zahra, who come from a low-income family in Tehran. When Ali accidentally loses Zahra’s shoes, they devise a plan to share Ali’s shoes so that their parents won’t find out. The film beautifully captures their struggles and determination as they navigate their challenges.
“Children of Heaven” was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and is celebrated for its simplicity, emotional depth, and portrayal of childhood innocence. It remains one of the most beloved Iranian films of all time.
3.The Color of Paradise (1999) – Rang-e Khoda
The Color of Paradise ( The Color of God in Persian: Rang-e Khoda) is a critically acclaimed Iranian film directed by Majid Majidi and released in 1999. The film stars Hossein Mahjoub as Hashem, a widowed father, and Mohsen Ramezani as his blind son, Mohammad.
The story revolves around Mohammad, an eight-year-old blind boy waiting for his father, Hashem, to pick him up from his school, which is closing for the summer. His father arrives late, and Mohammad spends the time exploring his surroundings and helping a fledgling bird. Despite Hashem’s request to keep Mohammad at the school over the summer, the headmaster refuses, and Hashem reluctantly takes his son back to their village.
Back home, Mohammad joyfully interacts with his sisters and grandmother, learning about nature and helping with chores. Hashem, struggling with the burden of caring for his blind son, decides to send Mohammad to live with a blind carpenter who can mentor him.
The film poignantly explores themes of love, acceptance, and the challenges faced by families with disabilities. It is celebrated for its beautiful cinematography, emotional depth, and robust cast performances. The Color of Paradise has won numerous awards and is considered one of the best Iranian movies in its rich cinema history.
4.Mother (1991) – Madar
Mother (Persian: Madar) is a poignant Iranian drama film directed by Ali Hatami and released in 1991. The film stars Rogheyeh Chehreh-Azad as the mother and Mohamad Ali Keshavarz as her eldest son, Mohammad.
The story revolves around the relationship between a mother and her children as they navigate life’s challenges. The mother decides to spend the rest of her days with her children instead of at a nursing home. Throughout the movie, the children learn to appreciate the last moments of their mother’s life despite their differences and struggles.
Mother is celebrated for its heartfelt performances and its exploration of deep emotional themes. It remains a beloved classic in Iranian cinema, considered one of the best Iranian movies ever, resonating with audiences for its authentic portrayal of family dynamics.
5.Turtles Can Fly (2004) Lak Posht Ha Ham Parvaz Mikonand
Turtles Can Fly (Persian: لاکپشتها هم پرواز میکنند) is a poignant Iranian film directed by Bahman Ghobadi and released in 2004. The film is set in a Kurdish refugee camp on the Iraqi-Turkish border just before the US invasion of Iraq in 2003.
The story revolves around a young boy named Satellite (played by Soran Ebrahim). He earns his nickname by installing satellite dishes in the camp to provide the villagers with news about the impending war. He becomes the de facto leader of the children in the camp, organizing them to clear minefields in exchange for money and food.
The narrative also follows Agrin (played by Avaz Latif), a traumatized orphan girl, and her clairvoyant brother, Hengov (played by Hiresh Feysal Rahman). The film explores the harsh realities faced by the children in the camp, their resilience, and their struggle for survival in a war-torn environment.
Turtles Can Fly is celebrated for its raw and powerful portrayal of the impact of war on innocent lives, especially children. The film received widespread acclaim and won several awards, including the Golden Shell at the San Sebastián International Film Festival. It is regarded as a significant work in Iranian and world cinema for its heartfelt and moving depiction of human suffering and hope.
6.Taste of Cherry (1997) – Ta’m-e Gilas
Another acclaimed work by Abbas Kiarostami, “Taste of Cherry” (Ta’m e Guilass), is a profound exploration of existential themes. The film follows Mr. Badii, a man contemplating suicide, as he drives around Tehran searching for someone willing to bury him after his death. His encounters with various individuals reflect diverse perspectives on life and death.
“Taste of Cherry” won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival and is celebrated for its minimalist approach, philosophical depth, and powerful performances. This masterpiece demonstrates Kiarostami’s ability to evoke deep introspection and his unique storytelling style.
7.Where Is the Friend’s Home? (1987) – Khane-ye Doust Kodjast?
Directed by Abbas Kiarostami, “Where Is the Friend’s Home?” (Khane-ye Doust Kodjast?) is a simple yet profound tale about a young boy’s journey to return his friend’s notebook. Knowing that his friend will be in trouble if he doesn’t complete his homework, Ahmed embarks on a determined journey to find his friend’s house and return the notebook.
The film masterfully captures the innocence and determination of childhood, as well as the everyday lives and landscapes of the villagers. Through Ahmed’s quest, Kiarostami explores themes of responsibility, empathy, and the importance of small, kind gestures in human relationships.
“Where Is the Friend’s Home?” is praised for its simplicity, poetic storytelling, and exploration of human kindness and perseverance. As one of the best Iranian movies, it showcases Kiarostami’s ability to create compelling narratives from everyday experiences.
8.The Cow (1969) – Gav
Directed by Dariush Mehrjui, “The Cow” (Gav) is a pioneering work in Iranian cinema. It tells the story of Masht Hassan, a villager whose prized cow mysteriously dies. The film explores Hassan’s psychological breakdown and the impact of the loss on the village. The Cow is considered a cornerstone of the Iranian New Wave and is celebrated for its powerful narrative and social commentary.
9.Qeysar (1969)
Gheysar, also known as Qeysar, is a landmark film in Iranian cinema directed by Masoud Kimiai and released in 1969. The film stars Behrouz Vossoughi as the eponymous hero, Qeysar, who embarks on a quest for revenge after his sister commits suicide and his brother is killed unjustly.
The story revolves around Qeysar’s relentless pursuit of justice. He seeks to avenge his family’s honor by targeting the men responsible for their deaths. The film is notable for its brooding noir style and explores themes of family honor, revenge, and justice.
Gheysar is considered a classic in Iranian cinema and has had a lasting impact on the genre. It inspired a new trend for noir dramas centered on avenging family honor. The film’s powerful performances, particularly those of Behrouz Vossoughi, have cemented its place as a memorable piece of cinematic history.
10.Crimson Gold (2003) – Talaye Sorkh
Directed by Jafar Panahi and written by Abbas Kiarostami, “Crimson Gold” (Talaye Sorkh) is a gripping drama that explores themes of social inequality and despair. The film follows Hussein, a pizza delivery man and war veteran, who becomes increasingly disillusioned with his life. The film opens with a shocking robbery and then backtracks to reveal the events leading up to it.
The story follows Hussein as he navigates the harsh realities of life in Tehran, dealing with poverty, corruption, and his mental health struggles. After finding a purse filled with expensive receipts from an upscale jewelry store, Hussein attempts to return it but is denied entry due to his working-class attire3. This experience, coupled with the daily injustices he faces, drives him to make a desperate bid for wealth.
“Crimson Gold” received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling, social commentary, and compelling performances. Panahi’s ability to shed light on societal issues through personal narratives is showcased in this thought-provoking film.
Explore Iranian Culture on the Silver Screen
Iranian cinema has produced a wealth of cinematic gems that have left an indelible mark on the global film industry. The films highlighted in this article represent some of the best Iranian movies ever, showcasing the unique storytelling, cultural richness, and philosophical depth that define Iranian cinema. From the heartwarming tales of childhood to the profound explorations of existential themes, these films continue to captivate and inspire audiences worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions about Iranian Movies
If you have any other questions about Iranian movies, please let us know in the comments. We will respond as soon as possible.
1.What is the first Iranian movie in the history of Iran’s cinema?
Abi va Rabi is a silent film made in 1930 by Ovanes Ohanian. It is a comedy about the adventures of two friends, Abi and Rabi.
2.Why are Abbas Kiarostami’s films highly regarded?
Abbas Kiarostami is celebrated for his innovative storytelling, philosophical reflections, and ability to capture the essence of everyday life. His films often blend documentary and fiction, exploring themes of identity, deception, and human experiences. Kiarostami’s masterful direction and thought-provoking narratives have made him a seminal figure in Iranian cinema.
3.What themes are common in Iranian cinema?
Iranian cinema often explores family dynamics, societal expectations, identity, morality, and social justice. Filmmakers use poetic imagery, minimalist storytelling, and philosophical reflections to create compelling and thought-provoking narratives.
4.How has Iranian cinema influenced the global film industry?
Iranian cinema has significantly impacted the global film industry, earning numerous international awards and acclaim. The unique voice, innovative storytelling, and profound narratives of Iranian filmmakers have inspired filmmakers worldwide and contributed to the richness and diversity of global cinema.
5.What is the significance of “A Separation” in Iranian cinema?
A Separation” is a landmark film in Iranian cinema. It earned widespread critical acclaim and won the Best Foreign Language Film Academy Award. The film’s exploration of family dynamics, the issue of immigration, moral dilemmas, and its powerful performances and nuanced characters have significantly contributed to Iranian and global cinema.
