Juliette Binoche and Pedro Almodovar have signed a petition to support filmmakers Maryam Moghaddam and Behtash Sanaeeha, whose trial begins in Iran. They face allegations related to their film My Favourite Cake, which has been met with governmental backlash. The ICFR calls for the dropping of all charges against them, highlighting the film’s critical acclaim amidst its controversial reception in Iran.
Juliette Binoche, Pedro Almodovar, and Mohammad Rasoulof are among the prominent figures who have signed a petition in support of the filmmakers Maryam Moghaddam and Behtash Sanaeeha, whose trial is set to commence in Iran on March 1. The filmmakers face serious allegations related to their film My Favourite Cake, which premiered at the Berlin Film Festival in 2024 and received accolades including the Fipresci and Ecumenical jury prizes.
Moghaddam and Sanaeeha are accused of various infractions including “propaganda against the regime,” producing and distributing a film deemed to have obscene content, as well as offending public decency and morality through screenings conducted without appropriate licenses. The International Coalition for Filmmakers at Risk (ICFR) has initiated a petition demanding that the Iranian government unconditionally lift all charges against the pair and restore their freedom, garnering over 3,200 signatures from various notable figures, including Céline Sciamma and Agnieszka Holland.
The film My Favourite Cake is a tragicomedy that narrates the story of a 70-year-old woman who revives her love life, breaking free from her solitary existence. While the movie received critical acclaim, including topping Screen’s Berlin jury grid last year, it has faced backlash in Iran due to scenes depicting a woman without a hijab and instances of alcohol consumption and dancing, which are contentious issues in the country.
The ongoing situation surrounding Maryam Moghaddam and Behtash Sanaeeha illustrates the significant challenges faced by filmmakers in Iran, particularly those who attempt to tackle sensitive subjects in their work. The widespread support garnered through the petition reflects a global call for artistic freedom and the need for the Iranian authorities to respect the rights of artists and filmmakers.
Original Source: www.screendaily.com
