Jafar Panahi has been welcomed as a surprise special guest at the Sydney Film Festival’s Opening Gala.
The Iranian filmmaker, who was awarded the Palme d’Or for his new film, It Was Just an Accident, walked the red carpet at Sydney’s State Theatre on Wednesday night.
His latest Cannes win means Panahi now has the rare distinction of having won the top prize at all three major European film festivals, after taking Berlin’s Golden Bear for Taxi in 2015 and the Golden Lion at Venice for The Circle in 2000.
The film follows a group of former political prisoners who kidnap a man whom they believe to be their former interrogator and torturer. As the director said in an interview with Variety, the film was inspired by his experiences in an Iranian prison.
It Was Just an Accident follows a 14-year ban from making films for Panahi, handed out as a result of him speaking to the press and leaving Iran for “propaganda against the state,” which was lifted in April 2023.
A retrospective of his career – including It Was Just an Accident – will be screened at the festival. Panahi will introduce the films at selected sessions and participate in a free talk at the Festival Hub.
Announced in front of a packed State Theatre, festival director Nashen Moodley said the Sydney Film Festival is about “more than just watching films.”
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“It’s about creating space to reflect, to be moved, and to be changed. In a world that often feels noisy and divided, Sydney Film Festival brings us together to experience the power of cinema – to see the world through new eyes,” said Moodley.
“This year’s program is one of our boldest and most diverse yet, showcasing voices that challenge, inspire and connect us. To every filmmaker whose work is part of this year’s Festival – thank you. Your stories matter, and your courage and imagination are what bring this Festival to life.”
The festival’s opening night on Wednesday featured a screening of Sundance hit Together, starring Alison Brie and Dave Franco as Millie and Tim. Moving to the country for a quieter lifestyle, the couple experience a series of unnerving event.
A strangely friendly neighbour (Damon Herriman) and a supernatural encounter in a nearby cave send the couple on a ride that will bring them closer together than ever.
For more information on the Sydney Film Festival, click here.
