Cover ‘Wild Jonquils’ by Rahbar Ghanbari
‘Wild Jonquils’ by Rahbar Ghanbari
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Here are seven Iranian titles you can see at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez and the UPFI Film Center this February
Iranian cinema is known for its pre-revolutionary art. Contrary to the Western media’s dark and repressive picture of post-revolution Iran, The New Iranian Wave is arguably more innocent and features the country's rural beauty.
Critics worldwide have celebrated Iranian post-revolutionary cinema for its focus on lyrical and mystical drama, documentaries, and the like. In 1998, the Iranian government started to fund ethnic cinema, allowing filmmakers to emerge in various international forums and festivals. In 2006, the country had six entries of different styles at the Berlin Film Festival.
This year, seven Iranian films will be screened at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez (February 6, Tuesday) and the UPFI Film Center (February 7 to 9, Wednesday to Friday). Presented by the Cultural Center of the Philippines, The Cultural Section, the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran-Manila, and the UP Film Institute, the event is free and open to the public.
In case you missed it: Argentine Film Fest 2023: 5 films you can watch for free in PH
See the schedule below:
1. February 6, 2pm | Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez: ‘The Survivor’ by Seifollah Dad
Above A film still from 'The Survivor’
A film still from 'The Survivor’
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Seifollah Dad’s The Survivor is a 1996 epic historical drama that depicts how Palestine was taken away from its rightful citizens. It follows Palestinian family—Dr Saeid, Latifeh, and their infant Farhan—who lives in Haifa during the independence of Israel.
Iranian screenwriter and director Seillofah Dad is also known for Kani Manga (1988) and Under the Rain (1986).
2. February 7, 2pm | UPFI Film Center: ‘Romanticism of Emad & Tooba’ by Kaveh Sabbaghzade
Above Romanticism of Emad & Tooba’ by Kaveh Sabbaghzade
Romanticism of Emad & Tooba’ by Kaveh Sabbaghzade
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When destiny made Emad and Tooba meet each other for the first time, they knew well love is a skill, not just enthusiasm, beauty or an “itching” sensation.
More from Tatler: 10 films you shouldn’t miss at QCinema International Film Festival 2023
3. February 7, 5pm | UPFI Film Center: ‘Bodyguard’ by Ebrahim Hatamikia
Above ‘Bodyguard’ by Ebrahim Hatamikia
‘Bodyguard’ by Ebrahim Hatamikia
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Bodyguard follows the story of a middle-aged man who serves as a bodyguard to high-ranking political figures. He gets into trouble one day when a suicide bomber wearing an explosive vest approaches the vice president.
4. February 8, 2pm | UPFI Film Center: ‘The Other’s Father’ by Yadollah Samadi
Above ‘The Other’s Father’ by Yadollah Samadi
‘The Other’s Father’ by Yadollah Samadi
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Set in the 1990s. The Other One’s Father is about Shahab, a six-year-old boy who cannot speak. He runs away from his family and meets an elderly couple who take him to their home.
5. February 8, 5pm | UPFI Film Center: ‘Villa Dwellers’ by Monir Gheidi
Above Villa Dwellers’ by Monir Gheidi
Villa Dwellers’ by Monir Gheidi
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Villa Dwellers focuses on the story of the families of Iranian army leaders in 1986. It follows Aziz, a 50-year-old woman who enters the Villas complex with her grandchildren. Her life changes when her daughter-in-law comes to take her children away.
6. February 9, 2pm | UPFI Film Center: ‘Wild Jonquils’ by Rahbar Ghanbari
Above ‘Wild Jonquils’ by Rahbar Ghanbari
‘Wild Jonquils’ by Rahbar Ghanbari
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A schoolteacher worries about his class and students on a snowy mountain. He had to go after the students, but something happened unprecedentedly.
7. February 9, 5pm | UPFI Film Center: ‘Gholamreza Takhti’ by Bahram Tavakoli
Above ‘Gholamreza Takhti’ by Bahram Tavakoli
‘Gholamreza Takhti’ by Bahram Tavakoli
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Bahram Tavakoli recounts the life and career of Iranian freestyle writer and varzesh-e bastani [Persian traditional sport] practitioner Gholamreza Takhti. Born in Khaniabad, south Tehran, the latter entered Poulad Club and began training in wrestling as early as 15.
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Jove holds a degree in Journalism and is currently pursuing graduate studies in Philosophy at the University of the Philippines–Diliman. She has flair for in-depth, interview-driven stories that explore politics and culture, shaped by her background in national broadsheets.
When she’s not on assignment, Jove spends her days painting, sipping lemonade, and walking her dog, Jupiter. She can often be seen in Escolta with a film camera in hand, browsing novelty shops in search of rare memorabilia. For leads, reach her at Jove@tatlerphilippines.com.
