Spotlight on 7 Iranian Films at Russia's International Festival of Children's and Family Cinema

Spotlight on 7 Iranian Films at Russia’s International Festival of Children’s and Family Cinema

In an exciting showcase for Iranian cinema, seven remarkable films are representing the country at the XII International Festival of Children’s and Family Films, known as “Zero Plus,” currently taking place in Siberia, Russia. This festival is a unique platform that highlights high-quality films aimed at children and families, fostering creativity and essential values. Below, we provide an overview of the Iranian films featured in this prestigious festival.

The Iranian films include:

  • Snowy Summer – Directed by Setayesh Sasani Nejad
  • Being Ten – Directed by Fatemeh Jafari
  • Tomorrow Is Not Like Today – Directed by Seyyed Mahdi Karbasi
  • Memory – Directed by Fereshte (Sonya) Fardipur
  • Eraser – Directed by Mohammad Hasan Emadi
  • Silently – Directed by Sahar Mahmudi
  • Playground – Directed by Samaneh Asadi

Among these films, “Snowy Summer”, a feature film produced in 2025, tells a poignant story about a boy with Down syndrome who is left without a family. The narrative follows his daring attempt to escape from a private boarding school for special children, as he seeks to carve out a new life for himself.

“Being Ten”, produced in 2023, is a short animated film that explores the unique bond between a father and his ten-year-old son living in isolation within a dense forest. The father, a hunter, makes a life-changing decision to spare one of his prey and brings it home as a gift. This seemingly innocent act transforms the boy’s life in unexpected ways.

In the 2024 short film “Tomorrow Is Not Like Today”, we meet Hossein and Reza, two fifth-grade friends at Isar State Elementary School. A joyful moment in physical education class leads to a surprising conflict involving their teacher, Mr. Ahmadi. However, the storyline reveals deeper complexities beyond the initial quarrel.

“Memory”, another 2024 production, follows the story of Saeid, a ten-year-old boy who faces significant repercussions due to a lie he tells, demonstrating the weight of honesty and accountability.

The 2025 short film “Eraser” introduces Sohrab, a notorious bully in his school. After a classroom accident for which he is blamed, Sohrab unexpectedly becomes the hero of the situation, leading to a path of redemption and transformation into a better person.

In “Silently”, also produced in 2025, we are introduced to Aysan, a hearing-impaired boy grappling with a stressful life. When he becomes the target of blame for an incident at school, his fears prevent him from speaking out and defending himself, bringing attention to the challenges faced by those with disabilities.

Lastly, the 2022 animated short “Playground” tells the story of a young girl whose illness and the dullness of hospital life leave her feeling despondent. However, her spirits are lifted when she receives a very special toy, showcasing the power of imagination and joy.

The International Children’s and Family Film Festival “Zero Plus” aims to promote and celebrate high-quality films that instill a positive, creative, and formative worldview in children and young audiences. The festival emphasizes core human values such as family, childhood, friendship, kindness, and a love for nature and professions.

Additionally, the festival plays a vital role in integrating cinema and education by curating a collection of value-oriented films that can be screened in schools and social institutions across Russia. This initiative not only entertains but also educates, encouraging a well-rounded development for the younger generation.

Launched on October 5, the 12th edition of the “Zero Plus” international film festival is set to conclude on October 27. The festival presents a valuable opportunity for Iranian filmmakers to showcase their talent and engage with a broader audience, contributing to the global conversation around children’s and family cinema.

As the festival progresses, it highlights the importance of storytelling in shaping young minds and nurturing a sense of empathy and understanding through the lens of cinema.

Photo: A scene from the short animation “Being Ten” directed by Fatemeh Jafari.

Similar Posts

  • Discover the Hidden Gems: Unveiling Tehran’s Vibrant Art Galleries

    Tehran’s vibrant art scene is alive with several noteworthy exhibitions featuring talented artists. Highlights include Azadeh Nikoo’s “Stitches Align for Harmonious Song” at Jaleh Gallery (until December 9), Saeid Emdadian’s “Four Seasons” at Binesh Gallery (until December 6), and Solmaz Heshmati’s “The End Game” at Yafteh Gallery (until December 12). Other must-see exhibitions include Soheila Dizgoli’s “The Divine Comedy” at Ebteda Gallery, Nasim Zolfaqar’s showcase at Javid Gallery, and Mehdi Nabavi’s “Folded Culture” at Nian Gallery. Each exhibition offers a unique perspective, making them essential visits for art lovers before they close.

  • This article will be expanded soon. This article will be expanded soon. This article will be expanded soon. This article will be expanded soon. This article will be expanded soon. This article will be expanded soon. This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly. This article will be expanded with more detailed information…

  • Pentagon Refutes Claims of Stalled Cyber Operations Targeting Russia

    Recent reports indicate U.S. Cyber Command, led by Hegseth, was ordered to pause cyber operations against Russia, sparking national security concerns. An anonymous official denied any halt, stating operations against malicious Russian targets continue. This pause, coinciding with tensions between Trump and Ukraine’s Zelenskyy, drew criticism from Democratic leaders, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. Additionally, Trump has paused military assistance to Ukraine until he assesses its leaders’ commitment to peace. These developments raise questions about U.S. foreign policy and its impact on cybersecurity, military strategy, and diplomatic relations amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

  • Iranian Short Film ‘Sheep’ Shines at Three International Festivals!

    The Iranian short film “Sheep,” directed by Hadi Babaeifar, is gaining recognition at the RiverRun International Film Festival in North Carolina. This 2024 production, running for 13 minutes, follows a young girl named Rose in Tehran as she attempts to save sheep destined for sacrifice. The film features performances by Rose Tabatabaie and Gelavij Alam, adding emotional depth. “Sheep” will also be showcased at the Busan International Short Film Festival and the International Short Film Festival Oberhausen later this month. Babaeifar’s work highlights the innocence of childhood and showcases the evolving narrative of Iranian cinema on the global stage.

  • Russia and US Poised to Release Joint Statement After Key Riyadh Discussions

    A joint statement from the United States and Russia regarding the Ukraine conflict is expected to be released on March 25, following positive discussions in Saudi Arabia. The talks, lasting over 12 hours, involved key officials from both nations, including members of the Russian delegation and senior U.S. representatives. A White House official noted the discussions were seen favorably, with a focus on addressing the complexities of the Ukraine situation and reviving the Black Sea grain initiative. The anticipated statement could pave the way for further negotiations and has significant implications for international relations and economic stability.

  • Celebrating Hafez: Chinese Scholars and Students Unite at Peking University

    A conference honoring the Persian poet Hafez was held at Peking University in Beijing, celebrating his literary contributions and the cultural ties between Iran and China. Key speakers included Li Shujing, Chair of the Foreign Languages Department, and Iran’s Ambassador Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli. They emphasized the shared literary heritage and the importance of cultural cooperation, noting the expansion of Persian studies in China. Following speeches, discussions on Hafez studies took place, with students presenting on his works. The event concluded with the ambassador donating Persian poetry anthologies, reinforcing the significance of poetry in fostering understanding between the two nations.