Iranian cinema – sharply modern, fed by tradition

In art cinema land, Iranian films can be arresting, varied, mischievous and enigmatic. An email interview provides a glimpse of the challenges in making these films.
[This is archived content and may not display in the originally intended format.]

Image: Zakieh Behbahani in No Date, No Signature

At the end of a limited release at the moment, Iranian film No Date, No Signature by Vahid Jalilvand is an impressive psychological study of a doctor unravelling in a very different society. A single weakness turns into a ghastly moral dilemma which wipes out the good he does in his life of dedication to the poor. The performances are exquisite, and the limited production resources have been turned into disciplines. Jalilvand was educated as a theatre director and his affinity with actors is very evident.

Unlock Padlock Icon

Unlock this content?

Access this content and more

David Tiley was the Editor of Screenhub from 2005 until he became Content Lead for Film in 2021 with a special interest in policy. He is a writer in screen media with a long career in educational programs, documentary, and government funding, with a side order in script editing. He values curiosity, humour and objectivity in support of Australian visions and the art of storytelling.