Iranian Film Triumphs at Ankara International Wildlife Documentary Festival

In a remarkable achievement for Iranian cinema, the documentary “Dog Eater,” co-directed by Fathollah Amiri and Nima Asgari, has clinched a prestigious award at the Ankara International Wildlife Documentary Film Festival in Turkey. This festival, which took place from May 15 to 18, featured a staggering 691 short and feature documentaries from 89 countries, showcasing a diverse array of stories and perspectives.

“Dog Eater” stood out as the sole representative from Iran, earning one of the coveted best short documentary awards, as reported by IRNA. This 40-minute film provides a gripping exploration of a border village in North Khorasan province, where the peace of the community is disrupted by the mysterious disappearance of dogs and the looming threat of a panther.

• Documentary Overview: The documentary illustrates the villagers’ response to the situation, depicting their decision to seek assistance from environmental authorities rather than resorting to extreme measures.
• Capturing the Panther: After a ten-day effort, the capture team successfully catches an old panther, which serves as the focal point for unearthing the reasons behind its predatory behavior.
• Tragic Twist: Following the capture, an unfortunate incident unfolds during the panther’s transport to Tehran, adding a poignant layer to the narrative.

As the title “Dog Eater” suggests, this documentary offers a hybrid narrative that intertwines the story of a wild creature with the complexities of human encroachment on natural habitats. The panther, seeking refuge in the border village to survive, resorts to hunting the domestic animals of local villagers and herders. This creates a compelling socio-environmental narrative that highlights the unintended conflicts arising from human expansion.

The filmmakers employ a documentary lens not only to capture the struggles of the capture team but also to delve into the local community’s environmentally conscious response to the panther. This examination reveals a nuanced perspective on the coexistence of humans and wildlife, illustrating the kindness and integrity exhibited by villagers towards this elusive feline.

Despite the successful efforts of the capture team and the villagers’ compassion, the documentary ultimately portrays a grim reality for such species that seek refuge within human communities. The fate that awaits these animals serves as a critical commentary on the broader implications of wildlife conservation in the face of urban expansion.

Fathollah Amiri, one of the co-directors, hails from Ilam and has established himself as a prominent Iranian documentary filmmaker. His passion for cinema began early in life, leading him to Tehran, where he earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in cinema from IRIB University. With a focus on impactful storytelling, Amiri has effectively captured the lives of animals, diverse cultures, and pressing social issues through his documentaries, many of which have garnered acclaim at international festivals.

Amiri is also dedicated to nurturing the next generation of documentary filmmakers in Iran, contributing to the growth of this vital art form.

Nima Asgari, the co-director, holds a degree in environmental and natural resources and has honed his filmmaking skills at the Iranian Youth Cinema Society, a prestigious institution in Iran. Since beginning his career in 2007 at the Iranian Cheetah Society, Asgari has focused on endangered species, particularly the Iranian cheetah. His films often explore the relationship between humans and nature, emphasizing the impact of human activity on wildlife extinction. As a key member of the Wildlife Pictures Institute, he has produced over 30 films and received numerous accolades at international festivals.

Turkey boasts a rich and diverse wildlife heritage, yet much of its Anatolian wildlife remains relatively unknown both domestically and internationally. Documentaries serve as a powerful medium for raising awareness about these issues, utilizing their artistic reach to engage audiences.

Wildlife filmmaking in Turkey is a niche profession with a relatively brief history. While there has been a rise in wildlife programs in recent years, few can be classified as true documentaries. The Ankara International Wildlife Documentary Film Festival aims to address this gap by introducing world-class wildlife filmmakers to Turkish audiences and facilitating the growth of this field in Turkey.

The festival strives to draw national and international attention to the wildlife of Anatolia, contributing to nature conservation efforts and supporting the art of wildlife filmmaking.

In conclusion, the success of “Dog Eater” at the Ankara International Wildlife Documentary Film Festival not only highlights the talent of Iranian filmmakers but also underscores the urgent need for awareness and conservation efforts in the face of human-wildlife conflicts. As the festival continues to shine a light on these critical issues, it paves the way for more impactful storytelling in the realm of wildlife documentaries.

Photo: Nima Asgari (second L) and Fathollah Amiri (second R) hold their award at the closing ceremony of the Ankara International Wildlife Documentary Film Festival on May 18, 2025.