The London Film Festival will feature an Iranian film titled 'Here Is My Friend's House', which was secretly filmed in Tehran. The film, directed by Iranian couple Hossein Keshavarz and Maryam Ataii, tells the story of two young friends, a playwright and actress, and a dancer, living together in Tehran. The film sheds light on the lives of young Iranian artists who continue to create and perform despite the challenges posed by war and economic instability.
The film was shot secretly over several weeks in September and October of last year, using a small camera and hidden sound equipment. The filmmakers had to be cautious due to the unstable situation in Iran, where they are based. The film's plot revolves around the daily lives of the two main characters, who are part of a group of young artists working outside the official frameworks. They collaborate on projects, including plays that are performed secretly, as they refuse to obtain licenses from the Iranian authorities.
'Here Is My Friend's House' won a special jury prize at the Sundance Film Festival in January and is set to be released in the United States on December 4. The film's success is significant, considering the obstacles faced by the filmmakers due to the US and Israeli airstrikes on Tehran during the 12-day war in 2025, as well as the internet shutdowns imposed by the authorities. The film's directors said they wanted to show that despite the turmoil, Iranian artists continue to live and create.
The film's directors, Keshavarz and Ataii, have been traveling between the US and Iran for nearly 20 years. They said they were inspired by the experiences of Iranian artists who have been arrested for performing secretly or publishing videos of their work. The filmmakers aimed to highlight the lives of independent women and girls living together and supporting each other. The film features a cast of young actors who continue to live and work in Tehran.
The film's production was a challenging and exhilarating experience for the directors. They said they often had to improvise and use a smartphone to film scenes. The film's cinematography and sound design were also adapted to the secretive nature of the production. Despite the challenges, the filmmakers said they felt a sense of pride and accomplishment in bringing this story to the screen.
Since completing filming, Keshavarz and Ataii have not returned to Iran and are unsure if they will be allowed to do so. However, the actors who appear in the film continue to live and work in Tehran, performing in secret plays and projects. The film's directors said they were inspired by the resilience and creativity of these young artists, who continue to pursue their passion for art despite the difficulties.
The screening of 'Here Is My Friend's House' at the London Film Festival is a significant event, showcasing the work of Iranian artists and highlighting the challenges they face. The film is a testament to the power of art to transcend borders and inspire audiences. The film's themes of creativity, resilience, and friendship are sure to resonate with viewers.
Key points
- The film 'Here Is My Friend's House' was secretly filmed in Tehran and highlights the lives of young Iranian artists.
- The film's directors, Hossein Keshavarz and Maryam Ataii, won a special jury prize at the Sundance Film Festival in January.
- The film will be released in the United States on December 4.
