یادداشت رئیس جشنواره

Nurturing Human Nature at the First Iran Open-Air Film Festival

Roads, travel, nature, and generally life beneath the sky have always symbolized maturity, ethics, and the proper way of living in our Iranian culture. Anything that brings people closer to nature helps nurture their humanity and gently touches the deepest layers of their emotion and feelings; a phenomenon that, in any art form including cinema, can lead to the creation of unique and extraordinary works distinct from conventional productions.

Years ago, while attending the Open-Air Film Festival in Germany, I thought about how much an event like this is missing from our cinematic festivals; a festival that, unlike the usual glamorous cinematic events, trades red carpets and five-star hotels for the earth’s vastness and the shade of the sky; a starry sky, delightfully fresh air, and above all, filmmakers who are passionate; passionate about cinema.

Now, by the grace of God and with the support of my friends, after completing all the official procedures, we intend to hold the first Iran Open Air Film Festival in May 2025, near the city known as the “Bride of Gilan.”

Undoubtedly, the support of the beloved people of Gilan and its exceptional artists will allow us to experience, for the first time, a festival with a distinct character. I eagerly look forward to receiving short and feature films from my dear colleagues for this event. Good news for screenplay enthusiasts: a dedicated screenplay section has also been included in the festival.

With hope in the Almighty and through collective effort, we can establish a festival worthy of the youth of this land.

Saeed Najati

President of the Iran Open Air Film Festival