28.11.2025 00:05
Famous director Nuri Bilge Ceylan will serve as the jury president at the state-supported Fajr Film Festival held in Iran. Ceylan's acceptance of this role has sparked discussions among Iranian independent filmmakers.
The world-renowned director Nuri Bilge Ceylan's role as the jury president at Iran's state-sponsored Fajr Film Festival has sparked reactions from independent filmmakers within the country.
PERCEPTION OF SUPPORT FOR THE OPPRESSIVE REGIME
Iranian filmmakers expressed their concerns that Ceylan's participation in the festival could be perceived as indirect support for the oppressive regime in the country. Independent directors stated that the festival has long followed the government's line and argued that the participation of international figures is used to soften the regime's image.
In response to the criticisms, Nuri Bilge Ceylan emphasized that his reason for being at the festival is to "support art and young filmmakers." Ceylan stated that he stays away from political discussions and expressed that his decision to participate was made purely for cinematic motivations.
The Fajr Film Festival is held annually with the support of the Iranian Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance and is considered the most important cinema event in the country. This year, Ceylan's presidency of the jury has resonated widely both in Iran and in international cinema circles.