Mehrdad Oskouei’s ‘A Fox Under a Pink Moon’ Triumphs with Top Award at IDFA Festival

In a remarkable achievement for Iranian cinema, the documentary “A Fox Under a Pink Moon” by filmmaker Mehrdad Oskouei has clinched the prestigious award at the 38th International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA). This accolade adds to the film’s impact as a powerful narrative that explores themes of art, hope, and resilience.

During the awards ceremony held on Thursday in the Netherlands, “A Fox Under a Pink Moon” was honored with the IDFA Award for Best Film in the International Competition, which came with a cash prize of €15,000, as reported by ISNA. This film, a joint production featuring contributions from Iran, France, the UK, Denmark, and the U.S., premiered at the festival and marked its first win on the international stage.

The documentary centers around Soraya, a 16-year-old Afghan artist who showcases her talent through stunning and often dark drawings and sculptures. Soraya’s journey is one of determination; she has been striving for five years to reunite with her mother in Austria. Her story exemplifies the struggles faced by many young artists in challenging circumstances.

The jury praised the film, stating, “This film opens a window onto the power of art and hope during the difficult times through which we’re living.” They highlighted the film’s masterful cinematography, often shot under precarious conditions, and the vibrant energy of its protagonist. The jury further emphasized how the collaboration between an established filmmaker and Soraya—a young artist—allows her to reclaim her identity amid the challenges of exile and domestic violence.

Oskouei directed the film entirely remotely, with Soraya self-filming all the footage over a span of five years, using her smartphone. This unique approach adds a personal touch to the narrative, blending her raw experiences with artistic expression. The film intersperses Soraya’s footage with her drawings and surreal animations, creating a rich tapestry of her thoughts and emotions.

For Soraya, creating art is not merely a hobby; it serves as an outlet for her worries, joys, and fears. She transforms everyday materials, like soaked egg cartons and clay found during her travels, into sculptures that reflect her inner world. Her artwork frequently features recurring motifs, including:

• A loyal fox, symbolizing companionship on her journey.
• A pink moon, representing a constant source of watchful guidance.
• A clown who never laughs, a character with whom Soraya deeply resonates.

IDFA stands as a leading international documentary institute that fosters creativity and collaboration among filmmakers, artists, and audiences from around the globe. Its extensive programming includes:

• A public festival showcasing films and new media.
• Funding initiatives to support emerging talent.
• Markets and talent development programs.
• Educational activities aimed at promoting documentary filmmaking.

The festival also hosts a year-round documentary hub located in the scenic Vondelpark in Amsterdam, further enriching the local and international documentary landscape.

In summary, “A Fox Under a Pink Moon” not only captures the essence of artistic expression under duress but also serves as a testament to the resilience of young artists like Soraya. With its compelling narrative and innovative filmmaking techniques, this documentary is poised to resonate with audiences worldwide.