Iranian Film ‘My Daughter’s Hair’ Claims Best Picture at Prestigious Italian Festival
In a remarkable achievement for Iranian cinema, the feature film “My Daughter’s Hair”, directed by Hesam Farahmand, has clinched the prestigious Best Film award at the 23rd Alice nella Città film festival held in Rome, Italy, from October 15 to 26, 2025. This recognition highlights the film’s compelling narrative and the talent behind its creation.
Also known as “Raha,” this 110-minute drama intricately depicts the struggles of a family navigating through an unstable economy. The story centers on Tohid, his wife, and their children, who lead an average life until a seemingly innocuous event alters their fate dramatically.
In the film, Tohid uses money earned from selling his daughter’s hair to purchase a second-hand laptop, which initially brings joy to the family. However, this joy is short-lived as a conflict arises with a wealthy family regarding the true ownership of the laptop. As tensions escalate, Tohid is confronted with harsh realities that force him to fight for his family’s well-being and future.
This production, emerging in 2025, delves deep into the hidden struggles faced by everyday people. Drawing inspiration from real-life experiences, director Hesam Farahmand has crafted authentic characters who navigate a world where justice is often elusive, and each choice significantly impacts their destiny. The film masterfully blends poetic visuals with social realism, creating a narrative that resonates across cultures and borders.
The film features a talented cast, including:
- Shahab Hosseini
- Ghazal Shakeri
- Zoha Esmailifar
- Arman Mirzaee
- Hadi Eftekharzadeh
- Mohammad Reza Samian
- Mahni Mehrpour
The Alice nella Città festival is renowned for its focus on debut films, new talents, and opportunities for younger generations in the film industry. It aims to promote film culture among a broad audience, particularly the youth, through a diverse program that includes screenings, expert meetings, workshops, and various engaging activities.
As a festival dedicated to nurturing future audiences, Alice nella Città serves as a global platform that operates year-round, offering educational resources for aspiring filmmakers and audiences alike. The event actively involves schools, children, and teenagers in the jury process, ensuring that young voices are integral to the festival’s official program, which features significant titles designed for younger viewers.
The festival’s comprehensive program consists of both competitive and non-competitive sections, alongside special activities and a major event aimed at national and international cinema schools. This unique approach fosters direct interactions between the public and cinematic masters, both behind and in front of the camera.
At the closing ceremony of the 23rd Alice nella Città, actress Ghazal Shakeri and producer Saeed Khani were present to celebrate the film’s success and the recognition it received during the festival. This accolade not only honors the film but also highlights the evolving landscape of Iranian cinema on the international stage.
In summary, “My Daughter’s Hair” stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the resilience of families facing economic hardships. Its win at the Alice nella Città festival marks a significant milestone for Iranian film and reinforces the importance of diverse narratives in cinema.
As audiences around the world continue to seek out authentic and relatable stories, films like “My Daughter’s Hair” pave the way for greater understanding and appreciation of different cultures through the lens of cinema.
