The 2024 Canadian absurdist comedy-drama film “Universal Language,” directed by Matthew Rankin, will screen at the Iranian Artists Forum in Tehran this Monday. This 90-minute film explores an alternate reality where Persian is prominent in Canada. The narrative intertwines the lives of characters like Negin and Nazgol, who find frozen money, and Massoud, a disoriented tour guide. Acclaimed as one of 2024’s top international films, it is also Canada’s entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards. Following the screening, renowned critic Mohammad Hashemi will discuss its themes of identity and culture, inviting viewers to reflect on language’s role in connection.
“Dreams on a Pillow,” a mobile game by Palestinian developer Rasheed Abueideh, immerses players in the emotional journey of the Nakba of 1948, which saw the mass displacement of Palestinians. Inspired by a traditional folk tale, the game follows a mother fleeing violence and mistakenly taking a pillow instead of her baby, symbolizing the trauma of exile. Abueideh aims to connect players with personal stories of loss and resilience, transcending mere historical facts. Following the success of his previous game, “Liyla & The Shadows of War,” Abueideh faces challenges like funding and censorship but appreciates the public support for his project.
The 26th International Storytelling Festival, organized by Iran’s IIDCYA, began in Yazd on Saturday, celebrating storytelling as a vital platform for cultural exchange. With over 34,000 storytellers from Iran and 25 other countries participating, the event highlights the importance of storytelling in connecting diverse cultures. The festival has attracted significant attention and includes notable international storytellers like Dimitris Prousalis. This year’s impressive turnout emphasizes the festival’s commitment to promoting storytelling as a unifying art form.
The Iranian Boutique Theater in Tehran is set to host a reading performance of Neil Simon’s comedy “Rumors” on Monday, directed by Yousef Heidarirad. The play centers on a chaotic anniversary party for Charley Brock, the Deputy Mayor of New York, who accidentally shoots himself while his wife, Myra, is mysteriously missing. As guests arrive, rumors and misunderstandings spiral out of control, leading to comedic misadventures involving a gun, a car accident, and frantic attempts to maintain normalcy. Featuring a talented cast, this performance promises an entertaining evening filled with laughter and absurdity, showcasing Simon’s trademark humor.
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Iranian cinema achieved a milestone with Pouyan Rostami’s short film “Ramy,” which received notable accolades at the Best Shorts Competition in California. The film won the Award of Merit for outstanding cinematography, awarded to producer Kasra Tirsahar, and an Award of Recognition for leading actress Houra Pakizehdel. “Ramy,” a 10-minute film addressing themes of grief and liberation, marks Rostami’s directorial debut. Set in a forest, it poignantly contrasts a grieving woman’s sorrow with the determined procession of women carrying a coffin. The film’s success underscores the growing visibility of Iranian cinema and the importance of platforms like the Best Shorts Competition.