Biography
Jafar Panahi (born in July 11, 1960) is a representative of Iranian “New Wave.” He is one of the leaders of contemporary Iranian cinema. Panahi’s work, from his first attempts to discuss social issues to his later and braver discussions of taboo topics in Iran are a creative reflection on the nature of cinema and human society, and are imbued with humanity. In 2010, the court in Iran sentenced Jafar Panahi to six years in prison. In addition, according to the sentence, Panahi was banned from making films for 20 years, giving interviews to local and international media outlets, and leaving Iran. Three Faces was his fourth film (after This Is Not a Film, Closed Curtain, and Taxi) shot after his arrest. The director did not attend the premiere due to being banned from leaving Iran. Panahi is a student of Abbas Kiarostami, whose influence is especially clear in Three Faces, reminiscent of such acclaimed masterpieces as The Wind Will Carry Us and Taste of Cherry.
Awards & recognition
- Asia Pacific Screen Award — Achievement in Directing · 2025
- Gotham Independent Film Award — Best Director · 2025
- Gotham Independent Film Award — Best Original Screenplay · 2025
- Palme d'Or · 2025
- Best Screenplay Award · 2018
Show all 17 awards →
- Golden Bear · 2015
- Preis für die Freiheit und Zukunft der Medien · 2015
- honorary doctorate from the University of Strasbourg · 2013
- Silver Bear — Best Screenplay · 2013
- Sakharov Prize · 2012
- Carrosse d'or · 2011
- Silver Bear · 2006
- Un Certain Regard · 2003
- Golden Lion · 2000
- Golden Leopard · 1997
- Caméra d'Or · 1995
- Academy Award — Best Writing, Original Screenplay · nominated
Filmography18 titles
Nasrin
The White Balloon
Through the Olive Trees
The White Meadows
The Mirror
The Witness
It Was Just an Accident
Taxi
Offside
No Bears
This Is Not a Film
Crimson Gold
Hit the Road
3 Faces
The Year of the Everlasting Storm
The Daily Show
Border Café
And, Towards Happy Alleys