Iranian short films ‘Hypnotism’ wins award at US film festival

Iranian short film ‘Hypnotism’ has won an award at the 4th edition of the International Peace & Film Festival in Florida, the US.

The title directed by Arshia Zeinali received the Essence Award which is given to the top film in the shorts category and recognizes the film’s ability to creatively convey an idea in minimal time.

‘Hypnotism’ tells the routine story of people involved thoroughly - or hypnotized - by the technology of modern life, in particular smart phones.

Set in a taxi, the film depicts people who get in and out of the car, all using their phones all the way, narrating their partial stories.

Iranian animation ‘Release from Heaven’ directed by Ali Nouri-Oskuei has also succeeded to win Best Cinematography award, Best Avant-garde Film Award, and Best Narrative Film Award from the US film event.

Founded in 2014, the International Peace & Film Festival combines the excitement of film with the goodwill of cultural exchange. The impact of blending a peace and film festival brings mutual benefit to audiences and participants through the diversity of attendees and their talents in cinematic art.

The 4th edition of the International Peace & Film Festival was held on January 18-20, 2018, in Orlando, the US. The awards were presented to the winners this week.

MG/MG