Explore Shi’ism: French Institute Premieres Documentary on Renowned Scholar Mohammad Ali Amir-Moezzi

Exciting news for documentary enthusiasts! The film “The Professional,” directed and produced by Masoud Taheri, is set to be screened at the esteemed Ecole Pratique des Hautes Études (EPHE) in Paris, France, on April 28. This engaging documentary delves into the life and contributions of professor Mohammad Ali Amir-Moezzi, a prominent French-Iranian scholar specializing in Shi’ism, as reported by Honaronline.

Located at Sorbonne University, the EPHE serves as a pivotal public institution dedicated to higher education and research in both the humanities and social sciences, as well as basic and applied sciences. Professor Mohammad Ali Amir-Moezzi, age 69, is a distinguished Islamologist affiliated with the EPHE. He is recognized as one of the foremost authorities in the study of early Twelver Shi’ism.

In conjunction with the film screening, several notable speakers are scheduled to address the audience. Among them are:

• Michel Hochmann, French art historian and president of EPHE
• Marie-Pierre Lamotte, director of the department of Patronage and Endowment Fund at the EPHE
• Constance Arminjon, director of studies at the EPHE

Professor Amir-Moezzi will also be in attendance, engaging with the audience following the screening alongside director Masoud Taheri. The documentary’s primary goal is to raise awareness within the global community, especially in Amir-Moezzi’s native Iran, about the profound intellectual insights of a scholar who remains relatively unknown both domestically and internationally.

As a specialist in Shi’a doctrine, Amir-Moezzi’s perspectives are particularly relevant to the current religious and political dynamics in Iran. Consequently, this documentary provides a unique opportunity for the exiled academic to connect with his audience directly.

Moreover, the film aims to delineate how Amir-Moezzi’s intellectual positions diverge from prevailing religious studies and Islamic discourses. The success of “The Professional” is already evident, having been showcased in the national competition at the 18th edition of the Cinema Verité Festival.

Born in Tehran, Amir-Moezzi has held the position of former director of studies at the Religious Sciences Section of the EPHE. His academic journey began in Tehran, where he laid the groundwork for his studies before moving to Paris. In 1991, he earned his doctorate from the University of Paris-III and the EPHE, focusing on the topic “Figure of the Imam and the birth of Shia Islam, 2nd-4th century of the Hegira,” achieving the distinction of “Very Honorable with unanimous congratulations.” His doctoral thesis was recognized with the first prize from the Mahvi Foundation in Geneva for the best doctoral thesis in Islamic Studies.

Since 2015, Amir-Moezzi has been instrumental in organizing monthly seminars at the University of Paris (PSL), collaborating with renowned professors such as Gilles Kepel and Bernard Rougier.

On the other hand, director Masoud Taheri is an accomplished Iranian writer, researcher, and filmmaker. He adeptly combines his technical expertise with a background in Persian literature, history, and philosophy to craft documentaries that explore philosophical, mystical, and cultural themes. His films emphasize a scientific approach and delve into the realms of philosophy, wisdom, mysticism, and Shi’i history and theology.

Some of his recent noteworthy documentaries include:

• “Al Kafi” – Focused on Shi’i hadith compiler al-Kulayni
• “The Seeker of Orient” – Examining the life and works of French philosopher and Iranologist Henry Corbin
• “The Eastern” – Exploring the legacy of Japanese scholar Toshihiko Izutsu

In conclusion, “The Professional” promises to be an enlightening exploration of Mohammad Ali Amir-Moezzi’s contributions to the field of Shi’ism, while also serving as a platform for broader discussions on the intersection of religion, politics, and scholarship in contemporary Iran. Mark your calendars for this significant event at the EPHE!

Photo: Mohammad Ali Amir-Moezzi (L) and Masoud Taheri