This Is Not a Film

Name: This Is Not a Film
Released: 2011-09-27T00:00:00-04:00

2011 Documentary · 1h 18m

Renowned Iranian director Jafar Panahi received a 6-year prison sentence and a 20-year ban from filmmaking and conducting interviews with foreign press due to his open support for the opposition party in Iran's 2009 election. In this film, which was shot secretly by Panahi's close friend Mojtaba Mirtahmasb and smuggled into France on a USB stick concealed inside a cake for a last-minute submission to Cannes, Panahi documents his daily life under house arrest as he awaits a decision on his appeal.

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About This Is Not a Film

Facing a six-year prison sentence and a twenty-year ban from filmmaking and interviews due to his political views, acclaimed Iranian director Jafar Panahi found himself confined to his apartment. Defying the restrictions, Panahi collaborated with Mojtaba Mirtahmasb to secretly document his life under house arrest. The resulting footage, smuggled out of Iran on a USB drive hidden inside a cake, became This Is Not a Film. The movie presents an intimate portrait of Panahi's daily struggles and creative resilience, showcasing his determination to continue expressing himself despite the imposed censorship. It's a powerful statement on artistic freedom and the enduring spirit of filmmaking in the face of oppression, a film that needed to be made against all odds.

Movie Trailer

This Is Not a Film Trailer

Cast and Characters

Directed by Mojtaba Mirtahmasb, This Is Not a Film stars Jafar Panahi as himself, offering a raw and unfiltered glimpse into his life under house arrest. Igi is Panahi's neighbor that he interacts with during the film. Mrs. Gheirat is Panahi's housekeeper. Mojtaba Mirtahmasb appears as himself, documenting Panahi's situation and co-directing the film. Rakhshan and Sima are members of Panahi's family, briefly shown offering support.

What people like about This Is Not a Film

Critics have lauded This Is Not a Film for its ingenuity, bravery, and powerful message. Many praised Panahi's ability to create a compelling and thought-provoking film despite the severe limitations imposed upon him. The film's raw and intimate portrayal of an artist's struggle against censorship resonated deeply with audiences, who highlighted the movie as a testament to the enduring power of creative expression. Reviewers also commended the film's innovative approach to documentary filmmaking, blurring the line between fiction and reality to create a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience.

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Movie Score

69%

Released

September 27, 2011

Director

Mojtaba Mirtahmasb

Cast

Jafar Panahi, Igi, Mrs. Gheirat, Mojtaba Mirtahmasb, Rakhsan, Sima

Genre

Documentary

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