Let’s discover icons of Iranian children's cinema

As the 35th International Film Festival for Children and Youth (ICFF) reaches the last stop in the heart of Iran's Isfahan province, it's a fitting time to celebrate and remember the Iranian figures who have left an indelible mark on the world of children's cinema.

These artists have brought to life characters that continue to resonate with generations of Iranian kids who are now all grown up. Let's take a moment to acknowledge their contributions:

1. Marzieh Boroumand: An Iranian actress, puppeteer, screenwriter, and director, renowned for her work in children's cinema. Her unforgettable projects include 'Hello! I'm Juju!' (1994), 'Ziba Barbershop' (1989), 'The House of Granny' (1987), and 'The City of Mice' (1985).

2. Iraj Tahmasb: An actor, screenwriter, and director, Tahmasb co-created the beloved puppet character Kolah Qermezi, also known as 'The One with the Red Hat’, which has captured the hearts of countless children.

3. Mahnaz Azin: A senior television producer specializing in children's films and series on IRIB Channel 1; Azin has been instrumental in shaping the entertainment landscape for young audiences especially with her 'The Ice Creams'.

4. Hamid Jebeli: A versatile figure in Iranian cinema, Jebeli is an actor, director, and voice actor. He is most recognized for lending his voice to Kolah Qermezi.

5. Ferial Behzad: A director and writer, Behzad is known for works like 'Valley of Butterflies' (1991), 'The Swallows in Love' (2011), and 'Harir' (2014), which have left a lasting impact on children's cinema.

6. Parvin Shemshaki: A prolific producer in both cinema and television, Shemshaki's contributions include the TV series 'The Last Class’, which remains etched in the memories of many. She is also the producer of 'Alesoon and Valesoon' (1989). 

7. Akbar Abdi: A multifaceted master of Iranian cinema, Abdi has played memorable roles in several children's movies, such as 'The Thief of the Dolls' (1990) and 'The Magical Journey’ (1990).

8. Reza Babak: Reza Babak, an Iranian actor, will forever be remembered for his voice as Mr. Hanaee in 'The House of Granny' (1987), a character that continues to resonate with generations.

9. Late Reza Zhian: The late Iranian actor, Zhian, is fondly remembered for his role in 'Come and Go Neighborhood’, a show cherished by both children and adults.

10. Bahram Shah Mohammadlou: Known as Mr. Storyteller of Iran, Bahram captivated young audiences with his storytelling in 'Under the Dark Blue Dome' during 1981-1991.

11. Hengameh Mofid: A talented poet, songwriter, writer, actor, and director of puppet theaters, Mofid's voice as the granny in 'The House of Granny' (1987) and 'Alesoon and Valesoon' (1989) continues to warm hearts.

12. Late Ardeshir Keshavarzi: As a director, puppet theater playwright, and puppet maker, Keshavarzi enriched children's entertainment with 'Hadi and Hoda' (1985), a cherished part of Iranian cultural heritage.

13. Late Kambozia Partovi: Renowned for his role as an Iranian film director and screenwriter, Partovi made a lasting impression with his 1988 movie 'Golnar’, a timeless classic for kids.

As the festival ends on October 12, 2023, we extend our warm wishes for many more prosperous years to those who are alive and offer our blessings and remembrance for those who have passed away. These talented artists have shaped the world of Iranian children's cinema and left a remarkable legacy for generations to come.

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