19-25 January
2026
The Seed of the Sacred Fig is a gripping drama film that follows Iman, a government official climbing the ranks of the Iranian judicial system. The film sheds light on misogyny and a tyrannical theocracy.
Iman's new role in the judiciary offers the prospect of a better life for his family, including a larger apartment in Tehran. However, he must navigate a system where he is expected to sign off on death sentences without reviewing the cases. Amid escalating political protests, Iman is confronted with the inhumanity of the system and his moral compromises.
The film also delves into the dynamics of Iman's family. His wife, Najmeh, struggles to balance her support for her husband with her daughters' rebellious spirit. When an injured protester seeks refuge in their home, the political violence outside becomes part of their private life. Director Rasoulof incorporates real mobile footage of demonstrations into the film, adding a sense of realism and documentary power. The film is a sharp critique of Iran's patriarchal and authoritarian system, but also a tribute to the courage of freedom fighters. Rasoulof himself was forced to flee Iran, further amplifying the film's message and relevance.
Mohammad Rasoulof (b. 1972) is an Iranian independent filmmaker who lives in exile in Europe. He is known for several award-winning films, including There Is No Evil (2020), for which he won the Golden Bear at the 2020 Berlin Film Festival. He has been arrested several times and had his passport confiscated, as the nature and content of his films have brought him into conflict with the Iranian Government. In May 2024, following the announcement that The Seed of the Sacred Fig was selected in the main competition at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, Mohammad Rasoulof was sentenced by the Islamic Republic to 8 years in prison, whipping, and a fine.
2020 There Is No Evil
2017 A Man of Integrity
2013 Manuscripts Don’t Burn
2009 The White Meadows
2005 Iron Island
Kl 19:00
Fokus 4
Kl 16:30
Alfheim
Kl 11:45
Verdensteatret
Programme: | Focus: Iran |
Director: | Mohammad Rasoulof |
Country: | Germany, France, Iran |
Year: | 2024 |
Run time: | 2h 48m |
Cast: | Mahsa Rostami, Setareh Maleki, Niousha Akhshi |
Dialogue: | Persian |
Subtitles: | English |
Producer: | Rozita Hendijanian, Mohammad Rasoulof, Amin Sadraei, Jean-Christophe Simon, Mani Tilgner |
Source: | Selmer Media |
Age limit: | 15 |