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This is Mahnaz Mohammadi. She is an Iranian born filmmaker & activist. She spent 7 years in an Iranian prison because her outspoken views on her nation’s oppressive practices & policies ran contrary to the expectations of a country the refuses to support such behavior. Particularly from a woman.
Mahnaz was offered asylum on several occasions from European countries. She refused them all. In her words: “because she felt it was important for her to tell stories of the truth & experiences in her country from her country”.
Wow.
It was my honor to spend time with this incredible, strong, inspirational & talented woman during the past week during the Toronto international film festival. Her 1st feature entitled SON-MOTHER screened 3 times, all to rousing ovations & spirited conversations in the following Q&A sessions.
My time spent with Mahnaz was a reminder that this is the real power of filmmaking. That cinema really can & should be so much more than it so often is. It’s a tool for education, contemplation, exposure & most importantly, inspiration. Not just to explore the possibilities of humankind, but also the truth & depths of it. To help drive change.
Mahnaz: thank you for your courage, unyielding spirit & willingness to sacrifice yourself for the betterment of others.
Thank you TIFF for giving this film a significant platform.
It you ever get the chance to see this gem, do it without hesitation. It will not disappoint & I promise it will move you. You will think about the good fortunes we enjoy here in the west, but also ponder the ultimate question any challenging film should leave you with: “if it were me, what would I do”?
The world needs to hear these types of stories more often.