Bahman Farmanara, a multifaceted Iranian filmmaker, has worn many hats throughout his illustrious career, excelling as a director, screenwriter, and producer.
Born into a family of four brothers and one sister, Farmanara was the second son, but he defied convention by choosing a path that diverged significantly from the family business.
Instead, he pursued a career in the arts, driven by a passion that would ultimately lead him to make a significant impact in the world of Iranian cinema.
Bahman's family had a long-standing textile business that played a substantial role in their ancestral heritage, yet he elected to deviate from this tradition, opting instead to embark on a distinct career path by departing Iran to pursue higher education in the United Kingdom, subsequently continuing his studies in the United States.
Bahman's academic pursuits came to a close, and he subsequently returned to his native Iran to fulfill the mandatory military service requirements that were an integral part of his civic duties. Upon the completion of his military obligations, he joined the esteemed National Iranian Radio and Television organization, where he went on to produce a diverse array of notable films, including the debut feature of the renowned Iranian filmmaker Abbas Kiarostami, titled The Report, which premiered in 1977.
Bahman's journey began in the early 1980s, when he made the bold decision to relocate to the culturally rich and historically significant country of France. This marked the start of a new chapter in his life, one that would be filled with exciting opportunities and challenges.
As he settled into his new surroundings, Bahman's entrepreneurial spirit was ignited, and he soon established a thriving distribution company. This venture not only provided him with a sense of financial security but also allowed him to connect with like-minded individuals who shared his passion for business and innovation.
However, Bahman's desire to make a lasting impact in his new community soon led him to pursue another passion project - the founding of a film festival catering to children and young adults in the vibrant city of Vancouver. This ambitious endeavor not only showcased his creativity and dedication but also provided a platform for talented filmmakers to showcase their work.
Despite the many successes he achieved in France and Canada, Bahman's heart eventually yearned for the familiarity and comfort of his homeland. In the mid-1980s, he made the bittersweet decision to return to Iran, bringing with him the valuable experiences and lessons he had gained from his time abroad.
Bahman's most recent creative pursuits have been centered around the production of Fragrance of Jasmine, a cinematic masterpiece that has garnered widespread acclaim, including multiple accolades at the prestigious International Fajr Film Festival, where it walked away with the coveted Best Film and Best Director awards.
