Iranian Filmmaker Mahnaz Mohammadi Returns with Bold Work ‘Roya’

A new film titled Roya from Iranian director Mahnaz Mohammadi explores the harrowing experience of a teacher imprisoned for her political beliefs. The film, which depicts the protagonist’s struggle between a forced televised confession and enduring isolation in Tehran’s Evin Prison, is set to premiere in the Panorama program at the Berlin International Film Festival on February 14, 2024.

This marks Mohammadi’s return to cinema after facing a series of challenges, including a seven-year prison sentence related to her activism and filmmaking. Her first feature film, Son-Mother, was released in 2019, but since then, she has been unable to work officially. To create Roya, she shot the film underground, without formal permission, a testament to her commitment to storytelling and resistance.

The film stars Melisa Sözen, a Turkish actress known for her performances in acclaimed films such as Winter Sleep and The Bureau. Mohammadi chose Sözen for her ability to convey deep emotion, recalling a moment in Winter Sleep that resonated with her. “There was a moment with Melisa in that film where she is just in silence and gave me this feeling that I started crying,” Mohammadi stated.

The cast also includes Maryam Palizban, Hamidreza Djavdan, and Mohammad Ali Hosseinalipour. Cinematography is handled by Ashkan Ashkani, with editing by Esmaeel Monsef. The film is produced by Farzad Pak at PakFilm in collaboration with Europe Media Nest, Amour Fou, and various German film institutions including NDR and ARD Degeto Film.

The filmmakers note that Roya offers a profound exploration of identity and perception through the lens of solitary confinement. Berlinale programmers highlight how the film illustrates the fragility of resistance under oppressive circumstances. Mohammadi explained, “The raw material comes from my lived experience, but it is also many people’s experience. It’s not just mine.”

While creating the film, Mohammadi had to navigate personal isolation, stating, “I wanted to make this film, and not just this film. I had to stay away from loved ones.” This experience of emotional detachment echoes the film’s themes of memory and trauma.

In response to the question of hope for the future, Mohammadi expressed a nuanced perspective. “I think everybody has their own definition of hope. Through my life experience, I learned that hope is not just a destination, but a way of living.” She emphasized that cinema plays a crucial role in her understanding and expression of hope.

As Roya prepares for its world premiere, it stands as a powerful statement not only about personal struggle but also about the broader fight for freedom and expression in Iran. Mohammadi’s story and her work resonate far beyond the screen, reflecting the resilience of those who dare to voice their truths.