Mohammad Rasoulof, a celebrated Iranian independent filmmaker, was born on November 16, 1972, in the vibrant city of Shiraz, a place that would later inspire the artistic expression that would become a hallmark of his illustrious career. Throughout the years, he has garnered widespread recognition and acclaim for his thought-provoking and visually stunning films, which have captivated audiences worldwide. His impressive repertoire includes the award-winning productions of The Twilight, released in 2002, a cinematic masterpiece that showcased his unique storytelling abilities. This was followed by Iron Island, which premiered in 2005, a gripping and emotionally charged film that further solidified his reputation as a masterful filmmaker. In 2011, he unveiled Goodbye, a poignant and powerful film that tackled complex social issues with sensitivity and nuance. The year 2013 saw the release of Manuscripts Don't Burn, a film that tackled the sensitive topic of censorship and freedom of expression, earning him critical acclaim and recognition. In 2017, he released A Man of Integrity, a gripping and intense film that explored the themes of morality and ethics. Finally, in 2020, he premiered There Is No Evil at the prestigious Berlin Film Festival, where he was awarded the coveted Golden Bear award for his outstanding contribution to the world of cinema.
Rasoulof's illustrious career in the film industry has been marked by a series of groundbreaking achievements, yet his work has not escaped the scrutiny of the Iranian Government, which has taken umbrage with the sensitive and often provocative themes he has explored in his films.
Mohammad Rasoulof, a prominent individual, was handed down an eight-year prison sentence by the Islamic Republic in May 2024, accompanied by the imposition of a severe whipping punishment and a substantial financial fine.
As a direct result of this draconian verdict, Rasoulof took drastic measures to ensure his safety, fleeing to a confidential location in Europe, where he is currently residing in self-imposed exile.
