The 9th edition of the Shahr International Film Festival, focused on the theme of “City and Cinema,” is taking place from November 10–12 at Mellat Cineplex in Tehran. The event features 21 expert panels, discussions, and workshops with prominent filmmakers, academics, and critics.

Why it matters:

The Shahr (Urban) Festival seeks to explore the concept of urban life in cinema through image, narrative, music, and cultural expression—at a moment when cities and media are undergoing rapid transformation.
 

The big picture:

As urbanization accelerates and cinema plays a growing role in reflecting city life, this festival provides a platform for dialogue between artists, scholars, and critics on the challenges and stories of urban living.

 

Key points:

  •  “Form and Composition” session with Iran Entezam 
  •  “City Music” workshop with Masoud Sakhavatdoost
  •  “Untold Stories of the City” with Marijn van Hoek
  •  “Urban Subcultures in Cinema” panel with Arvand Dashtaray
  •  “War, City, and Narrative” panel with Jalal Maleki, Ali Torabi, and Dariush Fathi
  •  Film critique session with Ramtin Shahbazi and Masoud Saflaei

 

Go deeper:

Iran’s Upcoming City Film Festival Introduces Urban-Themed Category

Neda Sajjadi - ahmad shirzadian