Throughout the twentieth century, Iranian filmmakers have been involved in a constant struggle, first against the monarchy and then against Islamic power. This confrontation gave rise to an innovative and unique cinematography, exported today around the world. This film tells the story of the unexpected success of Iranian cinema, from the era of the shah (1925), through the revolution and the Iran-Iraq war up to contemporary life. The crossed destiny of cinema with power is told through archive footage, extracts of pre and post revolution films and through interviews with the main protagonists of Iranian film industry. —International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam
This was a great documentary. However, there was one unfortunate omission. While Persian cinema was spreading throughout the world, Ali Hatami was re-inventing cinema in Iran. It's unfortunate that he is practically unknown. Also, if I may, couldn't they get a narrator who is slightly more familiar with the Persian language? Listening to her pronounce names was cringe-worthy!
Insightful documentary. The way it draws parallels from cinema to Iranian history and vice versa opens up many questions on how one should consider the value of art.