Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi returns to Cannes after prison release

ANI May 21, 2025 261 views

Jafar Panahi made a poignant return to Cannes after his release from Iranian prison, where he was detained for protesting state violence. His latest film received an eight-minute standing ovation, but he expressed anguish over colleagues still imprisoned. The acclaimed director, known for award-winning works like "Taxi" and "Offside," highlighted Iran’s suppression of dissenting artists. This marked his first Cannes appearance in over 20 years, blending celebration with activism.

"How can I rejoice? How can I be free while in Iran, there are still so many of the greatest directors and actresses... prevented from working?" – Jafar Panahi
Cannes, May 20: Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi appeared at the ongoing Cannes Film Festival.

Key Points

1

Panahi’s film earns 8-minute Cannes ovation

2

Speaks on guilt over imprisoned Iranian artists

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Arrested in 2022 for opposing police violence

4

First Cannes appearance in over two decades

His film 'It Was Just an Accident' was recently screened at the film festival. It earned a nearly eight-minute standing ovation at its premiere on Tuesday, as per Variety.

In his speech, Panahi gave a shout out to the filmmakers who are currently imprisoned in Iran, saying he felt some guilt upon being released from prison.

"I turned around and saw a very high wall. And behind this wall, all these other loved ones, all these people remained behind this wall. I wondered how I could be happy, how I could feel free, if they were still inside," he said.

He added, "Today, I'm here with you, I receive this joy, but I feel the same emotion. How can I rejoice? How can I be free while in Iran, there are still so many of the greatest directors and actresses of Iranian cinema, who, because they participated in and supported the demonstrators during the Femme Liberte movement, are today prevented from working?"

Panahi, who is considered one of Iranian cinema's greatest auteurs, previously won prizes "The Circle," "Offside," "This is Not a Film," "Taxi" and "No Bears," winner of the Venice Film Festival's 2022 Special Jury Prize. "Taxi" won the Berlin Golden Bear in 2015, while his "Offside" won the Silver Bear in 2006, as per Variety.

Arrested by Iranian authorities in July 2022 after signing an appeal against police violence, Panahi spent several months behind bars. He was released from prison in February 2023.

This is the first time he has been able to appear at the festival in over 20 years.

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Powerful words from Panahi. Art should never be suppressed, no matter which country. India has always valued freedom of expression in cinema - hope Iran can learn from our democratic values. His concern for fellow artists still imprisoned is truly moving.
P
Priya M.
While I admire his courage, I wish international film festivals would also highlight Indian filmmakers more. We have so many talented directors telling important stories about our society. Why always focus on Western or Middle Eastern cinema? 🤔
A
Arjun S.
This reminds me of our own Emergency period when artists faced censorship. Thank God for our democratic system now. Panahi's films should be screened in India - would love to see his perspective on human rights issues. Maybe at IFFI Goa next year?
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Shalini T.
Eight-minute standing ovation! Wow! Shows how art transcends borders. In India, we understand this well - our films are loved globally. Hope Iranian artists get their freedom soon. Meanwhile, let's appreciate that Cannes recognizes true talent regardless of politics.
V
Vikram J.
While I support artistic freedom, I wonder if Western film festivals sometimes use such cases to push political narratives. Indian cinema faces different challenges - commercial pressures, not government censorship. Each country's artistic journey is unique.
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Neha P.
His words about feeling guilty for being free while others suffer... reminds me of our own filmmakers who stood up during difficult times. Art has power to change societies. More power to Panahi! 🙌 Hope to see collaboration between Indian and Iranian filmmakers someday.

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Tags:
Jafar Panahi Cannes Film Festival Iran filmmakers It Was Just an Accident political prisoners