Exciting Release: Iran-Turkey Collaboration ‘Intoxicated by Love’ Set to Premiere in Turkey and Europe This October!
Exciting news for film enthusiasts! The highly anticipated Iran-Turkey joint film “Intoxicated by Love” is set to make its international debut in Turkey and Europe this October. Directed by the acclaimed Iranian filmmaker Hassan Fat’hi, this film has already captured the hearts of over two million viewers in Iran, making it a significant cultural event worth exploring.
“Intoxicated by Love” will premiere in Turkey and ten European countries starting on October 17, as reported by ISNA. This marks a long-awaited moment for the film, which was initially screened in Iran last year.
Produced by Mehran Boroumand and Hassan Alizadeh, the film has not only achieved commercial success in its home country but has also made history. It grossed 1200 billion rials (approximately $1.2 million) at the local box office, positioning it as the fifth highest-grossing film of the year and the highest-grossing non-comedy film in the history of Iranian cinema.
The filmmakers are optimistic that the Turkish release of “Intoxicated by Love” will replicate its domestic success, particularly due to the cultural connections between Iran and Turkey, especially concerning the admiration for the great mystical poet Rumi.
The film will be showcased in 250 theaters across Turkey, with plans to expand to more cinemas as demand grows. Furthermore, release contracts have been established for Gulf countries including:
- Saudi Arabia
- Bahrain
- Qatar
- UAE
- Jordan
Additionally, the film will be released in East Asian countries such as:
- Malaysia
- Indonesia
- India
Other regions set to screen the film include Russia, Canada, the United States, and several South American countries, with specific release dates to be announced soon.
“Intoxicated by Love” is a biographical historical drama filmed in the picturesque locales of Konya, Turkey. The narrative explores the profound relationship between the legendary Iranian poet Molana Jalal ad-Din Rumi and his mentor, the wandering sage Shams Tabrizi, in the 13th century CE.
This captivating film delves into the deep emotional bond Rumi shared with Shams and highlights Shams’ significant influence on Rumi’s life, artistry, and spirituality. Notably, the movie portrays Rumi’s transformative journey, including:
- Rumi’s travels to Syria, where he first encountered Shams.
- Their intense interactions during Shams’ second visit to Konya.
- Rumi’s subsequent neglect of his disciples and family due to his close relationship with Shams.
- The mysterious disappearance of Shams in 1247, which led Rumi to become a poet.
The film’s emotional depth is encapsulated in the Divan of Shams, which serves as a poetic reflection of Rumi’s experiences with Shams.
Leading the cast are celebrated Iranian actors Parsa Pirouzfar as Rumi and Shahab Hosseini as Shams. The film also features Turkish TV star Hande Erçel in the role of Kimia, Rumi’s stepdaughter and Shams’ lover, along with a talented ensemble that includes:
- Ibrahim Çelikkol
- Selma Ergeç
- Boran Kuzum
- Burak Tozkoparan
- Bensu Soral
- Hesam Manzur
The film’s soundtrack is enriched by the voice of renowned Iranian traditional vocalist Alireza Ghorbani, who performs a mystical poem by Rumi, complemented by an original score from celebrated Turkish musician Fahir Atakoğlu.
Written by Hassan Fat’hi and his colleague Farhad Tohidi, the screenplay was developed in consultation with Mohammad-Ali Movahhed, a leading expert on Rumi. At 64, Fat’hi is recognized as one of Iran’s most prominent and successful directors, noted for his acclaimed historical TV series such as “Heroes Never Die“, “Lighter Than Darkness“, “Zero Degree Turn“, “Tenth Night“, “Shahrzad“, and “Jeyran“.
As “Intoxicated by Love” prepares for its international release, anticipation continues to build among audiences eager to experience this unique cinematic portrayal of one of history’s most beloved poets.
