For the first time, the 43rd Fajr International Film Festival—one of the most important cinematic events in the Islamic Republic of Iran—has opened in the city of Shiraz, the capital of Fars Province. Until now, the festival had always been held in Tehran. More than 50 films are being screened, and Tajikistan is represented by the feature film Fish on the Hook.
The opening ceremony was attended by senior government officials, prominent figures of Iranian cinema, and international guests from various parts of the world.
Governor of Fars Province: “Iran Is Not Just Tehran”
Hossein Ali Amiri, Governor of Fars Province, emphasized the region’s capacity to host international cultural events, saying:
“Iran is not just Tehran. Cities like Shiraz have the potential to host international festivals and major cultural programs.”
In his conversation with journalists, Amiri referred to the historical significance of Shiraz and mentioned great cultural figures such as the world-famous poets Saadi and Hafez.
He added that the peace-loving spirit of the people of Shiraz has enabled the city to become recognized as a global center for peace and international mediation.
“I sincerely hope that holding this international festival will be the beginning of many other global-level events in Shiraz. The city of Shiraz and the people of Fars Province are known for their hospitality, peaceful nature, and deep interest in culture and science. The province has all the necessary potential,” Amiri said.
Focus on “Poetic Cinema”
Rouhollah Hosseini, Secretary of the 43rd Fajr International Film Festival, emphasized the importance of “poetic cinema” and returning cinema to a more humane direction.
He said the festival’s goal is to present films that explore human nature rather than merely sensational events.
“At this festival, we are presenting more than 50 films from different parts of the world, with diverse cultures, languages, and traditions. In these works, image and sound merge not to create spectacle, but to build a living world. Sometimes a single frame or a moment of silence can be as meaningful as a line of dialogue, or even more so.”
He added:
“Today’s world needs sincere and poetic storytelling more than ever. A world tired of violence can be healed by calm images, soft sounds, and honest narratives. We hope this festival becomes a meeting place for filmmakers who remind us of simple but forgotten human experiences—those who teach us again, through images, how to observe quietly, listen deeply, and understand life.”
"Fish on the Hook" — Tajikistan’s Entry
More than 50 films are competing at the 43rd Fajr International Film Festival, and Tajikistan is represented by the feature film "Fish on the Hook".
This Tajik–Iranian co-production, directed by Muhiddin Muzaffar, tells the emotional story of a ten-year-old boy named Daler who grows up in a boarding school and embarks on a long journey across Tajikistan—from north to south—together with a gambler named Samad in search of his mother.
The journey is not only physical but also spiritual. It reflects the inner transformation of both the child and the people he encounters along the way. Through symbolism and artistic expression, the film reveals the characters’ inner worlds and conveys ideas about the meaning of life, freedom, and human dignity.
More detailed information about the film is available in a separate Asia-Plus article.
Director Muhiddin Muzaffar and journalists from Asia-Plus are attending the festival in Shiraz.
History of the Fajr International Film Festival
The Fajr International Film Festival is one of the most prestigious film events in the Middle East.
It was founded in 1982 and has been held annually in February as part of the Ten Days of Fajr celebrations, marking the anniversary of the victory of the Islamic Revolution in Iran.
The festival serves as a major platform for showcasing Iranian and international films produced during the previous year.
This year marks the 43rd edition of the festival. Previously, most editions were held in Tehran, but hosting the event in Shiraz represents a new step toward promoting culture and the arts in Iran’s regions.
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