A portrait of Iranian sound designer Asghar Shahverdi

Asghar Shahverdi, born on September 17, 1957, in Tehran, stands as one of the most distinguished sound designers in Iranian cinema.

With a passion for sound that runs in the family, Asghar's brothers, Masoud and Mohammad Shahverdi, are also accomplished sound designers.

This familial dedication to the craft has contributed significantly to the depth and quality of sound in Iranian films.

Asghar’s journey in the world of sound began early. In 1976, he graduated from the Higher School of Television and Cinema with a degree in sound recording.

His expertise and commitment to the industry were recognized in 2019 when the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance awarded him an honorary doctorate in sound recording.

This accolade was a testament to his invaluable contributions to Iranian cinema over several decades.

Throughout his career, Shahverdi worked on numerous iconic films that have left a significant mark on the industry.

He won the Crystal Simorgh for best sound at the Fajr Film Festival twice, for ‘Nar and Ney’ and ‘Where Is the Friend’s Home?’, and was nominated for ‘Maybe Another Time’.

His sound work on films like ‘Hamoon’, ‘Sara’, ‘The Tenants’, ‘Leila’, ‘Kimia’ and ‘Mom’s Guests’ has resonated with audiences both in Iran and internationally, with these films being aired on iFilm English TV, bringing Iranian cinema to a global audience.

However, Shahverdi’s life took a tragic turn in November 2007. After returning from the set of ‘A Light in the Fog’ in northern Iran, he was involved in a severe car accident that resulted in significant brain damage.

For more than a decade, he has faced ongoing health challenges due to the injuries sustained in that accident.

Despite these challenges, his legacy in the Iranian film industry remains strong, and his work continues to inspire new generations of sound designers and filmmakers.

As we reflect on the incredible achievements of Asghar Shahverdi, we wish him good health and a full recovery. His contributions to cinema are deeply appreciated, and his influence will undoubtedly endure for many years to come.

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