Iranian Film Festival bridges cultures in Malaysia
The 2025 Iranian Film Festival held in Malaysia, bringing five acclaimed Iranian films to the big screens of Golden Screen Cinemas (GSC) across Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru from February 19 to 22.
The event, now in its third edition, is the result of a collaboration between the Cultural Center of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Malaysia, the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization, Golden Screen Cinemas Sdn Bhd, and Malaysia›s National Film Development Corporation (FINAS), ISNA reported.
The festival opened in Kuala Lumpur with a ceremony attended by Iran’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Valiollah Mohammadi, Iran’s Cultural Attaché Habib-Reza Arzani, Iranian filmmaker Babak Khajeh-Pasha, and a diverse crowd of Iranian expatriates, Malaysian film enthusiasts, and local cinema professionals.
Pan Vui Shang, head of GSC’s international department, welcomed guests and underscored the unique opportunity this festival offers in fostering cross-cultural connections. “Iranian cinema, with its simple yet poetic storytelling, carries profound meanings that deeply resonate with audiences,” he remarked.
Habib-Reza Arzani praised the ongoing support from partnering organizations and stressed the vital role of cinema in building cultural bridges. “This festival is more than just a film showcase—it’s a window into Iran’s rich traditions, lifestyle, and values,” Arzani noted.
He highlighted the inclusion of five standout films, each offering a unique lens on Iranian culture and history.
Among the featured films is ‘In the Arms of the Tree,’ Iran’s official submission for Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards. Other titles include the heartwarming animation ‘Dolphin Boy,’ the nostalgic drama ‘Fragrant,’ the inspiring tale ‘Goodbye Shirazi Girl,’ and the adrenaline-pumping adventure ‘The Captain’.
Arzani emphasized that the festival isn’t just about entertainment, it’s about fostering mutual understanding.
“Iranian cinema offers a diverse range of genres, telling human stories that transcend borders. It’s an invitation to see the world through a different lens,” he said.
Iran’s envoy stressed the pivotal role of Iranian cinema in reflecting the nation›s cultural and social values.
Celebrating the 46th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution, Mohammadi described cinema as a strategic tool in Iran’s cultural diplomacy. “Iranian films tackle universal themes, making them a bridge between nations,” he added.
He also revealed ongoing discussions between Iranian and Malaysian film bodies to draft a formal cooperation agreement aimed at boosting joint film productions. “This partnership will pave the way for collaborative storytelling that merges our rich cultural tapestries,” Mohammadi said.
Datuk Kamil Othman, chairman of FINAS, spoke passionately about the cultural synergy between Iran and Malaysia.
He praised Iran’s success in leveraging cultural industries and expressed hope that Malaysia could follow suit. “This festival isn’t just about films—it’s about learning from each other and growing stronger together,” he shared.
Babak Khajeh-Pasha, director of ‘In the Arms of the Tree,’ took a moment to highlight the emotional connection between Iranians and Malaysians, especially regarding shared concerns for global humanitarian issues. “Art has the power to unite. Through cinema, we can amplify voices that often go unheard,” he said, referring to the shared empathy for the plight of children in Gaza.
Following the screening of ‘In the Arms of the Tree,’ the audience erupted in applause, celebrating the film’s poignant storytelling. Among the crowd were notable Malaysian artists, cultural figures, and members of the media, including famed singer Dato’ Mohamad Nasir.
A delegation from Iran’s cinematic institutions also attended, including officials from Soureh Cinema Organization and the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization. They used the opportunity to meet with key Malaysian media and film entities, exploring possibilities for future collaborations, joint productions, and cultural exchanges.