Unveiling the First Trailer of Mohammad Rasoulof’s The Seed of the Sacred Fig: A Gritty Reflection on Iran’s Struggles

Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof’s new film, The Seed of the Sacred Fig, is gaining significant attention in global cinema. After premiering at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival and winning a Special Jury Prize, it has been showcased at major festivals including Telluride, Toronto, and New York. The film is set for US release on November 27th with a trailer recently unveiled by Neon, generating excitement for this gripping political narrative.

The film, shot covertly, follows Iman, a new investigator in Tehran, as he navigates a city embroiled in political turmoil. His suspicion of those around him—including family—grows when his government-issued firearm goes missing, leading to a deepening paranoia that threatens his familial bonds. The narrative skillfully reflects the prevailing societal tensions and the looming specter of authoritarianism, amplifying the stakes for its characters.

Rasoulof, renowned for works such as There Is No Evil and Manuscripts Don’t Burn, presents a thoughtful examination of themes such as fear and domination. With performances from Misagh Zare, Soheila Golestani, and Mahsa Rostami, the film maintains an intense atmosphere throughout its nearly three-hour duration, ensuring viewers remain engaged.

While The Seed of the Sacred Fig occasionally tries to tackle too many elements within its complex storyline, it effectively showcases the destructive nature of paranoia. This film is essential viewing for aficionados of daring political narratives.

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