Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof has sought help to escape his country after being sentenced for his film 'The Seed of the Sacred Fruit', which reflects the reality of the Middle East. The work received a special prize at the Cannes Film Festival, but provoked the condemnation of the Islamic regime, resulting in lashings, confiscation of assets, and eight years of prison for the filmmaker, five of which are specifically for this film.
Rasoulof, known for challenging Iran's rules with his uncomfortable cinema for the authorities, had to escape through a secret route from Tehran, crossing mountains on foot. He is currently in hiding in Berlin, as the sentence against him put his physical, economic, and emotional integrity at risk.
' The Seed of the Sacred Fruit' tells the story of a father promoted to judge in the Revolutionary Guard Tribunal, who discovers that the system does not seek to guarantee security but to impose predetermined sentences, especially during protest days in the Iranian capital. The film exposes the repression that families suffer under the regime, addressing delicate themes and current political issues.
Despite censorship in Iran, Rasoulof has been internationally recognized for his work, winning awards such as the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival and the Jury Prize at Cannes. He is currently nominated in the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars.
During the Oscar ceremony, Rasoulof made an appearance and was praised for his film during a press meeting. Despite the adversities, he was encouraged to continue making films, demonstrating courage and commitment to his art.
