Iranian Filmmaker Escapes to Europe Before Cannes Premiere Following Prison Sentence

Iranian filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof has fled to Europe after being sentenced to eight years in prison by the Islamic Republic. The award-winning director made the decision to leave Iran just days before the premiere of his latest film at the Cannes Film Festival.

In a statement distributed by press agents, Rasoulof revealed that he arrived in Europe after a long and complicated journey. His lawyer had previously confirmed the harsh sentence, which also included flogging and confiscation of property, for making films and signing statements that went against the government.

Rasoulof, along with other artists, had signed a letter urging authorities to stop using violence during demonstrations following a building collapse in Abadan that claimed the lives of at least 29 people. This led to a crackdown on dissent in Iran, with Rasoulof becoming the latest target.

Despite the risks, Rasoulof decided to reveal his latest film, “The Seed of the Sacred Fig”, which is set to premiere in competition at Cannes on May 24. The director expressed his disappointment with the ruling and the ongoing repression in Iran, stating that many others have received even harsher punishments.

Rasoulof’s collaborators on the film have also faced pressure and intimidation from authorities, with some leaving the country and others being interrogated. The director is currently in an undisclosed location, and it remains uncertain if he will be able to attend the Cannes premiere of his film.

The artistic director of Cannes, Thierry Fremaux, emphasized the importance of Rasoulof’s presence at the festival, highlighting the film’s exploration of the Iranian dictatorship’s impact on families. Despite the challenges, Rasoulof’s supporters are hopeful that he will be able to attend the premiere and share his powerful work with the world.