West LA Times

The UCLA Film & Television Archive, together with the Farhang Foundation, is preparing for the 2025 UCLA Celebration of Iranian Cinema. Scheduled from June 14 to 29, the series will feature nine screenings that highlight both contemporary and classic films from Iran and the Iranian diaspora. The films in the lineup explore themes of identity, cultural heritage, human rights, and justice, with a special tribute to the influential writer-director Dariush Mehrjui.

The series begins on June 14 with "Reading Lolita in Tehran," directed by Eran Riklis and based on Azar Nafisi’s memoir. This film features actors Golshifteh Farahani, Zar Amir Ebrahimi, and Mina Kavani. It will be paired with the short documentary "A Move" by Elahe Esmaili.

On June 15, the day starts with the screening of "Suitcase," winner of the Farhang Foundation Short Film Festival’s first prize, followed by "Opponent" directed by Milad Alami. Later that evening, audiences can watch "The Dinner Party," another award-winning short, alongside Ali Samadi Ahadi’s "Seven Days."

Another notable screening on June 20 includes "Left Handed," the second prize winner from the festival, succeeded by "The Witness," co-written and directed by Nader Saeivar. These films explore nuanced themes of resistance and identity.

Films on June 21 include titles dealing with tyranny and the complexities of identity, such as "And How Miserable is the Home of Evil" and "The Old Bachelor." The series continues on June 22 with "Celluloid Underground," directed by Ehsan Khoshbakht, and "Razeh-del" by Maryam Tafakory.

Representing a narrative from the Iran-Iraq War, "The Siren," an animated film by Sepideh Farsi featuring Mina Kavani, will be presented on June 27.

The event concludes on June 28-29 with a tribute to Dariush Mehrjui, showcasing films like "Leila," "Hamoon," and "The Pear Tree." Special appearances by Mehrjui’s children, Maryam and Safa Mehrjui, will honor his legacy.

Paul Malcolm, a senior public programmer, emphasized the significance of this cinema celebration: “Some of the most engaged and engaging cinema in the world right now is being made by Iranian filmmakers... It is an honor to once again highlight their work at the Billy Wilder Theater."

Alireza Ardekani, CEO of Farhang Foundation, stated: “Farhang Foundation is honored to continue our incredible partnership with the UCLA Film & Television Archive... This important series provides a vital platform for Iranian filmmakers and storytellers."

The event is funded by the Farhang Foundation, with free screenings made possible through an anonymous donation, running until June 2026. Further details can be found at cinema.ucla.edu.