'Iliya, Search of Hero': An anti-Israeli children’s movie

‘Iliya, Search of Hero’, made by Seyyed Ali Mousavinejad, has emerged as the most anti-Israeli children's movie to date.

The movie introduces four characters from different parts of the world: Arash from Iran, Habib from Palestine, Jean from China, and Louis from France. Their international backgrounds contribute to a significant global event depicted in the film.

The animation simulates the conquest of Khaybar Fort by Imam Ali (AS) through the lens of a virtual reality game. It seeks to impart historical narratives to children, focusing on the story of Arash, a young gamer drawn into an enigmatic online game.

As Arash's family strives to shield him from the game's dangers, a larger conspiracy unfolds.

At its core, the story revolves around 11-year-old Arash, representing Iran in the virtual reality game ‘Searching for a Hero’.

After the elimination of other players, Arash must navigate the game alone, uncovering deeper layers of the game's true nature. The story heats up as Arash's family gets caught up in the game's mysterious plot.

The film features four professional players from various countries, each facing challenges in the game's final stage.

Arash, the sole survivor, must defeat giants and search for the game's hero. However, his father believes the game distorts history and forbids him from playing.

Arash's encounter with a character named Michael, whose true identity remains hidden, adds another layer to the intrigue.

The characters' unique abilities—Arash's archery skills, Habib's trapping techniques, Jean's martial arts expertise, and Louis's mastery of whips and ropes—enhance the film's adventurous appeal.

According to Mousavinejad, the movie aims to educate children about the noble character of Imam Ali (AS) and the historical context of the Battle of Khaybar.

Combining adventure and mystery, ‘Iliya, Search of Hero’ runs for 92 minutes and will be dubbed in Arabic, Turkish, and English to reach a broader audience. Plans for sequels are already in motion as well.

The film was shot over two years in Kashmir, Mashhad, Tehran, and Qom.

‘Iliya, Search of Hero’ has garnered several accolades, including nominations and awards at the 35th International Film Festival for Children and Youth and the 14th Ammar Popular Film Festival.

The film's narrative challenges viewers to reflect on historical events and the portrayal of the Zionist regime.

Through the format of a VR game, the movie addresses ideological themes, aiming to explain the history and reasons behind the enduring conflict between Palestine and the Zionist regime.

By intertwining entertainment with education, the film seeks to foster a collective spirit and a sense of responsibility among children, highlighting the significance of family collaboration and heroism.