Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi arrived at Tehran’s international airport on Monday, just two days after winning the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival for his film It Was Just Accident. This thriller, which tells a revenge story, was a major hit in France and sparked controversy over its depiction of torture in Iranian jails.
Background on Jafar Panahi
- Panahi has faced imprisonment multiple times in Iran for speaking out against government authorities.
- His most recent imprisonment was due to protesting the detention of filmmakers who criticized the government.
- This visit marks his first time attending Cannes in 15 years, as he had been banned from traveling.
Controversy Surrounding His Film
Panahi’s film has ignited a heated debate between French and Iranian officials regarding its content, particularly its portrayal of violence against women by men. The director now holds prestigious awards from Europe’s three major film festivals:
- Venice: Golden Lion
- Berlinale: Silver Bear
- Cannes: Palme d’Or
Public Reaction to His Return
Panahi’s return to Iran has been met with cheers from fans who consider it "history-making." Notable reactions include:
- Medhi Nadari posted footage on Instagram praising Panahi’s return.
- A bystander shouted "woman, life freedom" as he passed through the airport, a phrase associated with protests that erupted across Iran following the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini last year while in police custody.
Acceptance Speech Highlights
In his acceptance speech at Cannes earlier this month, Panahi emphasized the importance of freedom for his country, stating:
"What is most important now is our country [and] freedom of our country,"
He urged people to unite, asserting that no one should dictate what they can or cannot do.
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