13 new voices enter Iranian cinema at the 44th Fajr Film Festival

The 44th Fajr National Film Festival, Iran’s most important and influential cinematic event, has once again positioned itself as a gateway for emerging talent by introducing 13 first‑time directors to the national film scene.

The festival officially began on February 1, at Pardis Mellat Cineplex (Media Cinema) in Tehran, bringing together filmmakers, critics, journalists, and cinema enthusiasts from across the country.

Among the highlights of this year’s edition is the strong presence of debut filmmakers whose first features compete alongside works by established names.

This year’s lineup of first-time directors reflects a diverse range of cinematic concerns, from intimate social dramas to symbolic and experimental narratives. Films such as 'Tranquilizer', 'Ordoubehesht', 'Billboard', 'The Wind Dance', and 'Migration' demonstrate how a new generation of filmmakers is engaging with contemporary Iranian life.

Founded in 1982, the Fajr Film Festival is held annually to commemorate the anniversary of the Islamic Revolution. Over the past four decades, it has evolved into Iran’s most prestigious film festival and a central event in the country’s cultural calendar.

The festival has played a crucial role in shaping modern Iranian cinema, serving as the launchpad for many of Iran’s internationally acclaimed directors.

The 44th Fajr National Film Festival will run until February 11