Jafar Panahi

Jafar Panahi stands as a prominent figure in the Iranian "New Wave," significantly shaping contemporary Iranian cinema. His body of work frequently confronts pressing social issues, evolving from his early explorations to courageously tackling taboo subjects within Iranian society. Infused with profound humanity, Panahi’s films serve as a creative commentary on the interplay between cinema and human experience.

In 2010, Panahi faced a severe punishment from the Iranian court, receiving a six-year prison sentence. Along with this, he was subjected to a 20-year ban on filmmaking, giving interviews, and traveling outside of Iran. Despite these restrictions, he continued to create impactful cinema. His film "Three Faces" marked a pivotal moment as his fourth project following "This Is Not a Film," "Closed Curtain," and "Taxi," all produced in the wake of his legal troubles. Due to his travel ban, Panahi was unable to attend the film's premiere.

An influential student of acclaimed director Abbas Kiarostami, the stylistic and thematic echoes of Kiarostami's work can be observed in "Three Faces," which resonates with the essence of his masterpieces such as "The Wind Will Carry Us" and "Taste of Cherry." Panahi's unwavering spirit and artistry continue to inspire audiences worldwide.