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Oct. 9, 2024
Mohammad Rasoulof's Film Nominated for German Oscar Entry
The dissident Iranian filmmaker is in South Korea presiding over the main competition at Busan International Film Festival.
Dissident Iranian filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof has
expressed his deep gratitude for Germany’s selection of his film, The Seed
Of The Sacred Fig, as its entry for the Best International Feature Film
category at the 97th Academy Awards. Speaking at the Busan International Film
Festival, where he serves as the president of the New Currents jury, Rasoulof
highlighted the significance of this decision, especially given the film’s
complex production background and his own tumultuous journey.
The Seed Of The Sacred Fig delves into
the life of an investigating judge in Tehran’s Revolutionary Court, grappling
with personal and political turmoil amid anti-government protests. The film,
which won a Special Jury Prize at Cannes, was initially withdrawn by the
Iranian government, leading Rasoulof to flee to Europe after being sentenced to
eight years in prison.
Rasoulof praised Germany for embracing the film and
its cultural narrative, stating, "They are opening their arms and
understanding other cultures". He emphasized the importance of continuing
to create films under any circumstances, hinting at future projects that will
explore both Iranian and European stories.
This recognition by Germany not only underscores the
film’s artistic merit but also serves as a beacon of hope for filmmakers
working under oppressive regimes.
