Renowned Iranian filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof, who was sentenced to five years in prison in his home country, announced on Monday that he had fled Iran just before the start of the Cannes festival where his latest film was scheduled to be screened. According to his lawyer, Rasoulof expressed gratitude to those who helped him cross the border safely, including friends and acquaintances who risked their lives in the process.
Mohammad Rasoulof’s lawyer confirmed that the filmmaker had left Iran and would be participating in the Cannes festival. The festival selected his new film, “The Seed of the Sacred Fig,” for screening. In an Instagram post, Rasoulof mentioned that he needed to complete final post-production adjustments for the film.
In 2022, Rasoulof, a multiple award-winning director, was arrested and later sentenced to five years in prison for alleged collusion against national security. His arrest came following demonstrations that arose after the collapse of a building in Iran that resulted in numerous casualties. Despite a temporary release for health reasons in January 2023, Rasoulof was prohibited from leaving the country.
Rasoulof is known for films like “A Man of Integrity” and “The Devil Does Not Exist.” He has a history of success at international film festivals. He previously won the Un Certain Regard prize at Cannes in 2017 and the Golden Bear at the Berlin festival in 2020. However, travel restrictions prevented him from attending the Cannes festival as a jury member in 2023.
Rasoulof’s decision to flee Iran comes as no surprise given his history of political activism and critical views on Tehran’s government. His arrest was widely condemned by human rights organizations around the world as an act of repression against free speech and artistic expression.
As he begins his new life as a fugitive from his homeland, Rasoulof can take solace in knowing that he has a dedicated team working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that “The Seed of
