Iranian film premieres in Berlin with plea to remember prisoners

The Iranian film Roya, which portrays the suffering of a political prisoner in Tehran’s Evin prison, premiered in Berlin, as reported by Al-Monitor via AFP on 30 April. The film holds a strong message from its creators: the situation of the Iranian people must not be forgotten.

Director Mahnaz Mohammadi described the story as a reflection of the reality many Iranians face today. Speaking at the screening, she compared the life of her film’s protagonist to the broader condition of people living under the current system, saying their existence mirrors the character’s experience of hardship and repression.

Mohammadi also raised serious concerns about executions in Iran, claiming that prisoners are being put to death every few hours without justice. Drawing from personal experience, she explained that she had been imprisoned multiple times over the past two decades and had even witnessed executions during her detention. Much of Roya is based on these experiences, making the film both a personal and political work.

Although most of the film was shot in Georgia, some scenes were filmed secretly inside Iran. It was first presented at the Berlinale festival in February and is scheduled for release in German cinemas on May 7.

Producer Farzad Pak emphasised that the film represents only a small part of what is currently happening in the country. He warned that thousands of people remain imprisoned and at risk of execution, urging international audiences not to overlook their situation.

According to recent reports by human rights organisations, at least 1,639 people were executed in Iran in 2025, marking the highest figure in decades. The United Nations has also reported that since the start of the current conflict, thousands have been arrested for political or security-related reasons, with dozens executed.

Actress Maryam Palizban stressed the importance of the film in raising awareness, especially at a time when global attention may be focused elsewhere.

Despite the ongoing repression, Mohammadi said that many Iranians remain hopeful. She noted that while people are exhausted, they continue to believe in the possibility of change and a future beyond the current political system.

Al-Monitor via AFP, Maghrebi.org