Iranian cinema: highlights from past week

In a week brimming with new releases and updates, the Iranian cinema scene is filled with anticipation and excitement.

Here's a look at the latest developments:

1. Upcoming film ‘Open Arms’ set for release

The much-anticipated film ‘Open Arms’, directed by Behrouz Shoeibi and produced by Ali Sartipi, is slated to hit cinemas shortly after the end of the Islamic month of Safar, with screenings beginning in mid-September.

With its engaging storyline, lively atmosphere, and musical elements, the film is expected to draw significant audience interest, especially given the presence of several prominent actors.

Distribution of the film will be handled by Filmiran.

The star-studded cast includes Mehdi Hashemi, Ehteram Boroumand, Hamed Komili, Mohsen Kiaee, Gelareh Abbasi, Shabnam Goudarzi, and Javad Khajavi, with a special appearance by Hassan Majouni.

This comedy-drama marks Shoeibi's sixth feature film, following his previous works such as ‘No Prior Appointment’, ‘Day of the Riot’, ‘Woodpecker’, ‘Cyanide’ and ‘The Corridor’.

‘Open Arms’ was featured in the Soda-ye Simorgh section of the 42nd Fajr Film Festival, where it ranked among the top three films according to audience votes.

The film’s plot revolves around three intertwined love stories, each portraying a couple navigating the ups and downs of their emotional relationships. As these stories unfold, the characters discover new and profound meanings of love.

2. ‘The God of War’ enters post-production

The upcoming film ‘The God of War’, directed by Hossein Darabi and produced by Saeed Sa’adi, has officially entered the post-production phase.

The film, which features a performance by Saeed Soheili in a strikingly different role, is based on a screenplay written by Ehsan Saqafi.

Produced by Owj Arts and Media Organization, ‘The God of War’ delves into a sensitive and significant contemporary event, bringing a powerful true story to the big screen.

After completing its filming at the Sacred Defense Cinema Town, the movie has now moved to the editing stage under the expertise of Siavash Kordjan.

This marks Darabi's latest directorial project following his previous works ‘Expediency’ and ‘Henas’.

The film's additional cast and crew details are expected to be announced soon, heightening anticipation for its release.

3. Filming begins for Masoud Atyabi's new comedy ‘Dinosaur’

Filming has kicked off for the latest comedy ‘Dinosaur’, directed by Masoud Atyabi.

Produced by Mohammad Shayesteh, with a script by Amir Baradaran, this film marks the continued collaboration of the team behind the successful movie ‘Hotel’.

The film stars Pejman Jamshidi and Amir Jafari in leading roles, promising to deliver a series of humorous moments that will entertain audiences.

Given the previous successes of Atyabi's comedies, both critics and Iranian cinema-goers are eagerly awaiting the release of ‘Dinosaur’.

The question on everyone’s mind is whether this film will replicate the commercial success of Atyabi's earlier works.