Iran’s ‘Green Plum Season’ to Shine at Santo Domingo Global Film Festival
Green Plum Season, the debut feature film by Iranian director Ali Bayat, is set to make waves at the 17th Santo Domingo Global Film Festival. Scheduled from January 31 to February 6 in the picturesque Dominican Republic, this Iranian film will be showcased as part of the Vanguardias Opera Prima out-of-competition program, according to Honaronline.
Produced in 2024, this gripping 95-minute film explores profound themes of family, grief, and the complexities of human relationships. The storyline revolves around Ata, a former judge who seeks solace at his family’s villa in the countryside after resigning from his judicial position. However, his return is met with hostility from his son, Farhad, who has recently been released from prison.
As tensions mount, Ata’s wife, Giti, decides to file for divorce, further escalating the familial discord. The plot takes a tragic turn when a car accident claims Farhad’s life and leaves Giti paralyzed. In the wake of these calamities, Ata is ensnared in a web of deception as he attempts to protect Giti from the grim realities of their circumstances. Complicating matters, Farhad’s girlfriend, Vida, grows increasingly suspicious about the events leading to his untimely death.
The film features a talented cast, including:
- Mehdi Ahmadi
- Fariba Kamran
- Siavash Cheraghipur
- Ayoub Aghakhani
- Ehsan Majouni
- Maryam Hemmatian
Prior to its screening at the Santo Domingo Global Film Festival, Green Plum Season has been showcased at several prestigious film festivals, including:
- Dhaka International Film Festival
- Iranian Film Festival Zurich
- Asian Film Festival Barcelona
- Wales International Film Festival
- Sofia MENAR Film Festival
According to director Ali Bayat, the film tells an “eccentric, romantic story of a father’s growing love for his deceased activist son.” The narrative delves into themes of mourning and the struggle to keep the flames of love alive amidst overwhelming grief. Bayat’s work embodies an oriental, fatalistic, and tragic love story set against a backdrop of a culture that holds a firm belief in the cyclical nature of history, marked by sorrow and inevitability.
Ali Bayat, 41, has a background in mechanical engineering but found his passion in filmmaking. He has created five short films that have been featured in over 40 international festivals, garnering 20 awards along the way. His journey into film showcases his dedication and unique storytelling ability, which he brings to Green Plum Season.
This year’s Santo Domingo Global Film Festival also honors the memory of Ruben Abud, a distinguished figure in the Dominican film industry who passed away last year. Abud was not only a renowned photographer and filmmaker but also a pivotal force in the growth of Dominican cinema through his company, Kcettes Pro.
Ruben Abud’s influence in the film community is remembered fondly. He was known for his technical prowess and collaborative spirit, which significantly contributed to the development of the industry in the Dominican Republic. His legacy will continue to inspire future filmmakers and artists.
In a bid to strengthen cultural ties, this edition of the festival has partnered with the Embassy of India in the Dominican Republic, designating India as the Guest of Honor. The festival will showcase some of India’s most lauded recent film productions, highlighting the rich tapestry of cinematic storytelling from both nations.
Green Plum Season is not just a film; it is a poignant exploration of familial love, loss, and the lengths one will go to protect those they care about. As it prepares for its international debut, audiences can expect a compelling narrative that resonates across cultures.
As the festival approaches, the excitement surrounding Green Plum Season continues to grow, promising a captivating cinematic experience that showcases the depth and richness of Iranian storytelling.
Photo: A screenshot from Green Plum Season
