Mania Akbari

Mania Akbari is a distinguished Iranian filmmaker whose artistic journey commenced in 1991 as a painter. Transitioning into cinema, she initially worked as a director of photography and later took on the role of assistant director for various documentaries. Her acting debut came in 2002 when she appeared in Abbas Kiarostami's acclaimed film, *Ten*. The following year, she co-directed the documentary *Crystal*, showcasing her versatile talents.

Akbari made her mark as a writer, director, and lead actress with her first feature film, *20 Fingers*, in 2005. The film earned significant recognition, securing an award at the Venice Film Festival's digital film competition, which highlighted her innovative storytelling and artistic vision.

In 2007, she continued her collaboration with Kiarostami by directing a sequel to *Ten*, titled *10+4 (Dah Be Alaveh Chahar)*. This poignant film addresses her personal struggles with cancer, revealing her ability to blend personal narrative with broader themes of life and resilience. Akbari's work is characterized by its deep emotional resonance and keen exploration of the human experience, establishing her as a notable figure in contemporary Iranian cinema. Her career reflects a commitment to challenging norms and a passion for storytelling that speaks to both personal and universal truths.