Iran’s landmark cinematic event draws 122 films, spotlights first-time directors
Iran's annual Fajr Film Festival announced on Tuesday that 122 feature films have applied for competition in its 44th national edition, highlighting a significant contingent of emerging filmmakers.
The applicant pool signals a notable generational shift within the country's cinema industry. More than 45 percent of submissions, a total of 55 films, are from first-time directors, while 67 entries are from established Iranian filmmakers, IRNA reported.
The prominent festival, a key event in the regional cultural calendar, also received two films created using artificial intelligence tools for competition consideration.
The advertising section of the festival has attracted roughly 300 entries, including 145 teasers and trailers, 109 posters, and 44 distinct photo collections. All promotional materials correspond to films released by January 4, 2026.
Veteran Iranian photographer Mohammad Foghani oversees the advertising segment. The 44th Fajr Film Festival will run in Tehran from February 1 to 11.