Preview of 42nd FIFF contenders – 2

As the 42nd Fajr International Film Festival (FIFF) approaches, cinephiles eagerly await the cinematic gems to grace the screen from February 1 to 11, 2024.

Among the much-anticipated contenders, iFilm English delves into the second part of the 22 films selected for the main competition section ‘Sodaye-Simorgh’.

Let's embark on a preview of the compelling films, offering a glimpse into the stories that will unfold at this year's festival.

7. ‘Parviz Khan’: Parviz Dehdari's impact beyond the field

In a debut move at the current edition of the festival, filmmaker Ali Saqafi brings forth a biographical film centered on Iranian football player and coach Parviz Dehdari.

Distinct from typical sports narratives, the film delves deeper into the social dimensions of Dehdari's influential career.

Notable actors such as Saeed Poursamimi, Maryam Saadat, Hamidreza Pegah, and Behnam Tashakkor are appearing in the production.

Produced by the Owj Arts and Media Organization, the movie unfolds the narrative of prominent national team players who, under the guidance of Dehdari, made the decision to resign from the national team.

Saeed Poursamimi, known for his previous appearance in ‘Amphibious’ at the 38th Fajr Film Festival, takes on a significant role in bringing this story to the screen.

8. ‘Summer of the Same Year’: return of cinematographer Mahmoud Kalari as director

Renowned Iranian cinematographer Mahmoud Kalari returns to the director's chair after 23 years with his third film, ‘Summer of the Same Year’ which is set to be premiered at the 42nd Fajr Film Festival.

The cast list includes Mehran Modiri, Ali Shademan, Fariba Naderi, Samira Hassanpour, Roya Javidnia, Mahrou Nonahali, Saber Abar and Pejman Bazeghi.

Kalari's last directorial venture ‘Dance with a Dream’ adds anticipation to his latest offering.

9. ‘Bloody Crocodile’: Javad Ezzati's directorial debut

Javad Ezzati, a familiar face at the FIFF, steps into a new role as a director with his debut film ‘Bloody Crocodile’.

Collaborating with actor Kamran Hejazi once again, Ezzati presents a narrative featuring a cast that includes Abbas Jamshidifar, Saeed Aqakhani, Elnaz Habibi, Behzad Khalaj, and Shabnam Qorbani.

The film explores the director's unique perspective, showcasing his transition from acting to directing.

10. ‘Beautiful Lies’: Atash-Zamzam's cross-cultural cinematic endeavor

In the 13th collaboration between Iran and Bangladesh, Morteza Atash-Zamzam presents ‘Beautiful Lies’ as the follow-up to his recent work ‘Holia’.

The film unfolds the challenging life of Fereshteh and her husband Amjad, featuring performances by Bangladeshi actors Jaya Ahsan, Suman Rikita, and Salem Shahid.

11. ‘Missing Hand’: Ensieh Shahhosseini's unique perspective on Sacred Defense

Ensieh Shahhosseini, the sole female director at this edition of the FIFF, brings her fifth film ‘Missing Hand’ to the audience.

Coproduced by Seyyed Saeed Seyyedzadeh and the Farabi Cinema Foundation, the film features a cast of lesser-known actors, including Masoumeh Bafandeh, Zahra Ahmadkhani, and Azam Razavi.

Exploring the untold stories of the Holy Defense (the 1980s Iraq-Iran war), the film combines documentary elements with a female narrative of the historical event.

12. ‘Good Father’: Asghar Naeemi explores generational expectations

Having previously participated at the 41st FIFF, Naeemi is now unveiling his latest work ‘Good Father’.

The film portrays the story of Maryam's father, who exerts pressure on Maryam and her husband, enamored with the idea of grandchildren.

Starring Sina Mehrad, Pardis Ahmadiyeh, and Farhad Ayeesh, the movie addresses familial expectations and generational dynamics.

13. ‘Shahsavar’: Hossein Namazi returns to wedding drama

Hossein Namazi, known for ‘Shadravan’, returns with his third directorial effort ‘Shahsavar’.

Set within a wedding ceremony, the film features Elnaz Habibi, Mehrdad Seddiqian, and Hadi Kazemi.

The storyline unfolds over three days and nights, capturing the essence of a joyous celebration.

To be continued ...

Part 1:

Preview of 42nd Fajr Int’l Film Festival's contenders – Part 1

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