W2TCH

116 Essential Iranian Films

116 titles

Default order ↑PopularityIMDb ratingTMDB ratingRelease dateRuntimeTitleBudgetBox office
  1. 1Through the Olive TreesMovie · 1994 · 104m · Drama, RomanceTony Armas II's independent film *Life, and Nothing More* (1992) follows the director as he encounters unexpected difficulties while working to film a challenging scene. The movie examines perseverance, creativity, and human connection as Armas struggles with setbacks that threaten his carefully planned vision for the film. The story reveals the technical hurdles of filmmaking and the emotional challenges Armas faces as he tries to maintain control amidst these obstacles. The film offers a personal and honest look at a director's struggle, showing both the frustrations and successes of trying to bring a creative idea to life. Through this compelling portrayal of the filmmaking process, *Life, and Nothing More* invites viewers to explore the core of artistic creation and the strength needed to overcome obstacles on set.Stream onIMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4
  2. 2HemlockMovie · 2000 · 101mAfter his business partner is injured in a car crash, Mahmoud (Fariborz Arabnia), who is happily married, travels to Tehran and meets the captivating Sima (Hedye Tehrani). They decide on a "temporary marriage," but Sima resists the idea of it ending. Her growing reluctance to fulfill the traditional expectations of this arrangement escalates into obsession in this popular Iranian film.IMDb 6.5TMDB 4.9
  3. 3The ReportMovie · 1977 · 112mA tax collector faces accusations of bribery while struggling with difficulties in his personal life.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7
  4. 4Croesus' TreasureMovie · 1965 · 122mDesperate to end his life, the wealthy Qarun is rescued by two impoverished men, Ali Bigham and his companion Hassan Jeghjeghe. While caring for Qarun, the pair expose him to a world beyond his own, revealing the realities of poverty and the lives of those less fortunate.IMDb 6.2TMDB 4.3
  5. 5StraitMovie · 1973 · 102mAli gets into a fight with three brothers, accidentally killing one. He then flees to escape the consequences.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.6
  6. 6Haji Agha, the Cinema ActorMovie · 1934 · 75mDirector Ovanes Ohanian seeks a subject for his next film, and is advised to secretly film the wealthy and cinema-averse Haji Agha. With the help of Haji's daughter, son-in-law, and servant, the director captures footage of the man. When Haji's watch is lost, he suspects his servant, leading him and his son-in-law on a frantic search. Their pursuit takes them to the dentist and then to a fakir who promises to locate the watch through unusual methods. Throughout the filming, the director persistently photographs Haji. Eventually, Haji views the completed film and begins to appreciate the power of cinema.IMDb 7.8TMDB 5.2
  7. 7QeysarMovie · 1969 · 100mDriven by vengeance for his murdered sister and brother, a young man embarks on a path of retribution.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.9
  8. 8The Pear TreeMovie · 1998 · 95mWriter Mahmoud is blocked on his current book and seeks respite at his family's rural estate north of Tehran, hoping to finish it there. At the estate, the old gardener directs his attention to an ancient pear tree. This prompts Mahmoud to reflect on his past: his youthful infatuation with his cousin M, his adolescent dreams, and how they evolved over time. The film then follows Mahmoud as he contemplates his memories.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.7
  9. 9HarmonicaMovie · 1974 · 75m"Harmonica," set on Iran's southern coast, follows a young boy who receives a harmonica as a gift from overseas. He becomes the center of attention among his friends, who vie for the chance to play it. Their playful competition gradually turns darker and more dangerous.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9
  10. 10Deep BreathMovie · 2003 · 85mTwo men, both estranged from their families in distinct ways, navigate a life of poverty in a sprawling city. One finds love, while the other struggles with addiction.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9
  11. 11The House Is BlackMovie · 1963 · 21m · Documentary"The House is Black" takes viewers to a remote community in northern Iran where people with leprosy live together, seeking comfort amidst their illness. This documentary offers an unvarnished look at life in the colony, contrasting the difficult realities faced by the residents with their faith and expressions of thankfulness. Through this distinctive setting, the film explores the strength of the human spirit, the role of belief, and the significance of community when confronting hardship. "The House is Black" is a moving reflection on life's challenges and a reminder of our common humanity.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.4
  12. 12The Wolf's TrailMovie · 1993 · 92mReza and Sadegh-Khan are longtime friends involved in illegal activities. The day after Reza's wedding, he's arrested while carrying the body of one of his associates and sentenced to prison. After years of incarceration, he's released and establishes a quiet life in a small town. A letter from Sadegh arrives, inviting him to attend his son's wedding in the capital city.IMDb 5.3TMDB 4.8
  13. 13Low HeightsMovie · 2002 · 115mDriven by desperation, a man plans to hijack a plane to escape Iran and find a medical treatment for his ailing son.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2
  14. 14The Last ActMovie · 1991 · 105mIn a grand but decaying Tehran mansion, middle-aged siblings Kamran and Moluk struggle to make ends meet by selling furniture. Their lives are upended by the sudden death of their brother, who left the house to his widow, Forugh, who is traveling from the countryside. Desperate to inherit the property, Kamran devises a cruel plan: he writes a detailed script and hires actors to pose as household staff, intending to psychologically torment Forugh into madness and potentially suicide. The elaborate deception works, terrifying Forugh and convincing authorities that she is losing her mind. The scheme builds toward a final, unsettling act.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.0
  15. 15TravelersMovie · 1992 · 90mOn her wedding day, a young woman's joy is shattered when her sister and family are killed in a car crash en route to the ceremony. Her mother, refusing to accept the loss, insists the wedding proceed. Surrounded by guests and mourners – including the truck drivers responsible for the accident – the bride must find a way to marry while navigating a wake and without a crucial family tradition: a mirror her sister was bringing for the service.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.5
  16. 16The CyclistMovie · 1989 · 79mIn Iran, Afghan immigrant Nasim's wife is seriously ill, and he desperately needs money for her treatment. His work digging wells doesn't provide enough. A friend connects him with a shady promoter who offers a way to earn money: riding a bicycle continuously for a week. The promoter draws in crowds of sick and elderly people, encouraging them to see hope in Nasim's endurance. With his son's help, feeding him as he rides, Nasim pushes through days and freezing nights. Local authorities suspect a scheme and try to disrupt the event, as do those betting against Nasim completing the week. Will desperation be enough to secure the funds he needs? And is any victory truly real?IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.7
  17. 17Leily is with MeMovie · 1996 · 90mSet against the backdrop of the Iran-Iraq War, a television cinematographer facing financial difficulties seeks a loan from his network to finish his apartment. A colleague suggests he travel to the war zone, ostensibly to film a documentary about Iraqi prisoners. The plan is to accompany a powerful figure in the network's finances, hoping to secure the loan. Reluctant to face danger, the cinematographer's moral compass leads him to discover something far more valuable than he initially sought.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.9
  18. 18TenMovie · 2002 · 94m · DramaThis film presents a visual exploration of modern society through ten conversations between a woman who is driving and the people she picks up along the way.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3
  19. 19Smell of Camphor, Fragrance of JasmineMovie · 2000 · 93mHaunted by past failures and living in the shadow of his wife's death, director Bahman is working on a documentary about Iranian burial rituals for a Japanese television network. On the anniversary of her passing, a chance encounter with a hitchhiker reveals a disturbing story of abuse and loss. Bahman then uncovers evidence that someone is buried in his wife’s plot. He enlists the help of his resourceful lawyer as he investigates, grappling with his own mortality and a growing heart condition. As his world unravels, and his wife's husband disappears, Bahman questions if he's ready to face death and what purpose remains.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3
  20. 20The May LadyMovie · 1998 · 88mForough Kia, a divorced filmmaker living with her son Maani, sets out to make a documentary about perfect mothers. She interviews numerous mothers, attempting to select one as the ideal. Overwhelmed, Forough eventually abandons the project, but Dr. Rahbar encourages her to continue. Meanwhile, Maani constantly teases her and tries to stop her from marrying Dr. Rahbar. Ultimately, Forough decides she does want to marry him.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.8
  21. 21Where Is The Friend's House?Movie · 1987 · 83m · Drama, Family, AdventureAn eight-year-old boy's accidental discovery of his best friend's notebook leads to a difficult situation. He learns that failing to return it by the next day could mean his friend's expulsion from school. The story follows the boy as he tries to fix his mistake, discovering the importance of honesty, loyalty, and standing up for a friend. It’s about how far a child will go to protect a friendship.Stream onIMDb 8.1TMDB 7.9
  22. 22GilanehMovie · 2005 · 84mAgainst the backdrop of the Iran-Iraq War in 1988, Gilane bravely journeys with her pregnant daughter, Maygol, from their peaceful village to the dangerous capital of Tehran. They seek Maygol's husband, Rahman, but face a grim reality upon arrival. Fifteen years later, with a new war erupting in Iraq, Gilane cares for her son Ismael, who suffers from epilepsy – a consequence of the previous conflict. While tending to him, she longs for a doctor's visit and a call from another daughter, Atefah. She reflects, "Better be a dog than a mother."IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.8
  23. 23Under the Skin of the CityMovie · 2005 · 92mIn Iran, Tuba endures a difficult life working long hours at a textile factory. Each night, she returns to a challenging home filled with family struggles: her daughter is pregnant and suffers abuse from her husband; her teenage son is increasingly involved in radical politics and facing trouble; and her older son desperately seeks an engineering job in Japan, even risking selling their house, as a way to escape Iran.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0
  24. 24Life, and Nothing More…Movie · 1992 · 95m · Drama, AdventureFollowing the Guilan earthquake, a film director travels with his son to find actors from a movie he shot there years ago. Searching through the ruins, they meet survivors who have suffered immense loss but still maintain hope. The director documents the devastation and the strength of the people who persevere. The film shows how communities can rebuild and endure after unimaginable tragedy.Stream onIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.7
  25. 25The ImmigrantMovie · 1990 · 95mA pilot who uses small planes to locate the Iraqi front lines finds himself stranded and in danger of not being able to return home.IMDb 5.8TMDB 4.8
  26. 26Ashkan, the Charmed Ring and Other StoriesMovie · 2009 · 92mThe lives of several individuals become intertwined when a peculiar event occurs: a rare fish is released, and a ring with unusual properties is stolen. Among those affected are two blind jewel thieves, a young man struggling with suicidal thoughts, a police officer who is deeply in love, and two women who work in a morgue.Stream onIMDb 6.7TMDB 5.5
  27. 27About EllyMovie · 2009 · 119m · DramaDuring a picnic in northern Iran, a kindergarten teacher vanishes without a trace, and her friends find themselves caught in a string of unexpected problems.Stream onIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5
  28. 28Close-UpMovie · 1990 · 98m · Crime, DramaThis film blends fiction and documentary to examine deep ideas through a remarkable true story: a young man's arrest for pretending to be the famous director Mohsen Makhmalbaf. By including the real people involved, the film offers a complex look at filmmaking, identity, art, and life. It blurs the lines between reality and imagination, taking viewers on an immersive journey into the intricacies of human experience and creativity.Stream onIMDb 8.2TMDB 8.0
  29. 29Under the MoonlightMovie · 2001 · 96mSeyyed Hassan, a young seminary student on the verge of becoming a cleric, has his belongings stolen by a young boy. Determined to find the thief, he ventures into the suburbs, encountering people who have no experience with clerics or religious life. In this unfamiliar environment, Seyyed Hassan gains a fresh perspective on society and the complexities of human nature.IMDb 6.9TMDB 4.9
  30. 30Taste of CherryMovie · 1997 · 100m · DramaIn Tehran, Mr. Badii, a middle-aged man with financial security, decides he wants to die and seeks someone to bury him. His search for this person becomes a journey of unexpected connection. He meets many people, including a Muslim student who initially refuses. Badii persists until he finds someone willing to take the job for money. An emotional conversation ensues, with the new associate trying to talk Badii out of his plan, exploring the difficulties of life and the need for human connection in despair. The film examines loneliness, desperation, and the potential for connection in the face of hopelessness.Stream onIMDb 7.7TMDB 7.7
  31. 31Maybe Some Other TimeMovie · 1988 · 159mSusan Taslimi portrays three characters: Kian, grappling with questions of self; Vida, her confident artist twin sister; and their mother. Driven by fear of poverty, the mother gives up one daughter, later regretting her decision and withholding affection from the remaining child.IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.2
  32. 32The CycleMovie · 1978 · 101mAli and his father travel from their impoverished neighborhood to a hospital for his father's medical treatment. Lacking funds, Ali begins working for Dr. Sameri, who is involved in the blood trade.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.7
  33. 33AnxietyMovie · 1962 · 95mBehrouz, a crime novelist, is married to Roxanne and manages the factory owned by Roxanne's cousin, who died in a workplace accident.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.0
  34. 34Tranquility in the Presence of OthersMovie · 1972 · 86mA retired colonel moves to a quiet town after his daughters work as nurses in Tehran. He later marries a teacher and joins her in the capital, but discovers his daughters have changed. The older daughter tragically takes her own life, and the younger endures a disastrous marriage. Witnessing his children's struggles, the father descends into madness and is committed to an asylum. The film's politically charged themes led to its ban by the government for many years.IMDb 6.8TMDB 5.2
  35. 35The CircleMovie · 2000 · 90m · DramaIn modern-day Iran, several women navigate the challenges of a deeply patriarchal society.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9
  36. 36The SpringMovie · 1973 · 96mA man falls in love with a young woman, only to discover she's married to his friend. He learns she's having a secret affair with a carefree young man, meeting him in an abandoned building. Overwhelmed, he takes his own life. Fueled by jealousy, the local women reveal the affair, prompting her to also end her life. Her husband secretly buries her in an abandoned bathhouse. The young man, consumed by grief, descends into madness and wanders into the desert.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.7
  37. 37Child and ExploitationMovie · 1982 · 105mThis film explores the lives of children growing up in the suburbs of a large city, where they live and work.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.0
  38. 38SaraMovie · 1993 · 102mSara appears to have the ideal life as a wife and homemaker. When her husband, Hessam, needs urgent medical treatment overseas, she takes on a secret mission to raise the money for it. For three years, she works tirelessly to pay off a dangerous loan shark and save Hessam, but her efforts are exposed, revealing the true state of her marriage.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.6
  39. 39LeilaMovie · 1999 · 125m · Drama, RomanceThis film explores the complicated relationship of a modern Iranian couple navigating tradition and change. They face challenges as they try to reconcile their desires with the beliefs of their families. The husband's determination is tested as his wife more strongly pursues her own path. The movie examines the conflict between societal pressures and personal dreams, highlighting the difficult choices people make when balancing their heritage with their individual freedom.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.4
  40. 40Tight SpotMovie · 1973 · 112mBased on Sadegh Chooback's acclaimed novel, the film follows a man driven to seek revenge after being wronged. Director Amir Naderi was inspired to make the movie by Zar Mohammad, a legendary figure from his childhood who bravely fought against injustice and rallied public opposition to tyranny.IMDb 7.7TMDB 5.2
  41. 41That Which RemainsMovie · 1995 · 144mSet in 1967 and based on Ghassan Kanafani's novel, the film follows a Palestinian couple returning to the devastated city to find their son Farhan, whom they were separated from during the 1948 conflict. Their home is now occupied by a Polish Jewish family who are secretly holding Farhan. With the help of Farhan's grandmother, the couple must find a way to reclaim him. One of the few Iranian films to examine the Palestinian issue historically, Seifollah Daad’s work is notable for its detailed recreation of the time period and powerful performances.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.9
  42. 42ParrotMovie · 1977 · 108mIn a tough neighborhood, close friends Hashem and Bahman live life. Their world changes when they meet Tuti. Hashem falls in love with her, setting off a series of problems for both of them.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.0
  43. 43The PeddlerMovie · 1987 · 90mThis film comprises three episodes depicting the lives of impoverished and desperate people in Iran. The first follows an extremely poor couple with several disabled children who abandon their newborn, hoping for a better life for it. The second centers on a young man with a mental disability, isolated from society, struggling to care for his ailing, elderly mother who is near death. The third episode portrays a cowardly peddler desperately trying to escape his demanding boss.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6
  44. 44A Time for Drunken HorsesMovie · 2000 · 80m · Drama, WarFollowing their father's death, five siblings must learn to fend for themselves in a Kurdish village located on the border between Iran and Iraq.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.6
  45. 45Children of HeavenMovie · 1997 · 88m · Drama, FamilyA family facing financial difficulties finds themselves in a tough spot when young Zohre loses her shoes. Her older brother Ali accidentally misplaced them, forcing them to share a single pair so Zohre can get to school. This story is about the strong bond between siblings and how they face challenges with resourcefulness and determination.Stream onIMDb 8.2TMDB 7.9
  46. 46Still LifeMovie · 1978 · 90mA railway crossing guard and his wife exist in a life of complete isolation and predictability.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.8
  47. 47The MareMovie · 1986 · 108mSusan Taslimi stars as a poor single mother who agrees to marry her 13-year-old daughter to a middle-aged man. The exchange is for a mare, intended to provide income and support for her younger children. Director Ali Zhekan depicts the harsh realities of poverty and patriarchal traditions in rural Iran. The film shows the mother's desperate measures (like hiding rice in a tree) and the brutality of those who profit from the marriage. However, the 1986 film is primarily notable for Taslimi's powerful portrayal of the mother as she fights to protect her daughter’s freedom.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.0
  48. 48White NightsMovie · 2003 · 103mA reserved university professor, devoted to literature and teaching, encounters a young woman whose life has been reshaped by love. She's made a promise to meet her beloved at a specific location for four nights, exactly a year after they last saw each other. Over those four nights, the professor's interactions with this passionate young woman profoundly alter both their perspectives on love, literature, and expectation.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1
  49. 49The TenantsMovie · 1987 · 109mThis is a comedic look at the eccentric residents of a Tehran apartment building and the landlord who manages them.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.0
  50. 50Tales of an IslandMovie · 2000 · 91mThis anthology film features work from Mohsen Makhmalbaf (director of *Testing Democracy*) and Dariush Mehrjui (director of *Dear Cousin is Lost*).IMDb 5.4TMDB 4.2
  51. 51The Longest NightMovie · 2001 · 85mUnemployed Hamed is left behind when his wife and daughter immigrate to Europe in search of opportunity. Overwhelmed by separation, he isolates himself, seeking to re-evaluate his life through solitary reflection.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.3
  52. 52BeehiveMovie · 1975 · 112mFresh out of prison, Ebi makes a wager with his friend: he'll visit seven bars, drinking at each, without paying for a single thing.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.3
  53. 53P for PelicanMovie · 1972 · 25mA reclusive old man lives in a poor neighborhood and tries to teach the local children their letters. When a child suggests using the word "Pelican" for the letter 'P', the hermit ventures to the nearby park to see this unfamiliar bird.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.5
  54. 54The Red RibbonMovie · 1999 · 95mA man and a woman are in conflict over ownership of a piece of land.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.6
  55. 55TakhtiMovie · 1997 · 100mAli Hatami's film about Iranian wrestling legend Takhti was left incomplete. The Iranian Intelligence Ministry then tasked another director with finishing it. This new director intends to conduct thorough research into Takhti's life, suggesting he faces many obstacles in completing the project.IMDb 5.2TMDB 3.9
  56. 56Unruled PaperMovie · 2002 · 115mRoyaa, a mother of two, pursues her ambition to become a writer, but her life and relationship with her secretive architect husband, Jahaan, become increasingly complicated. The unfolding drama raises doubts about the truth behind their world.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.4
  57. 57From Karkhe to RheinMovie · 1993 · 92mSaeed, a veteran with vision problems from the Iran-Iraq War, travels to Germany for medical treatment and recovery. He's reunited with his sister Leyla, who has married a German. The siblings navigate their relationship in a new country as Saeed prepares for a life-altering surgery. The film explores the devastating consequences of war.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.3
  58. 58Pomegranate and CaneMovie · 1989 · 100mWhile searching for inspiration for a play, a photographer encounters an elderly man recovering from a heart attack and attempts to help him. As the photographer tries to uncover the man's identity, he is drawn into the old man’s recollections of the past.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.8
  59. 59Mr. GullibleMovie · 1970 · 112mA man from a quiet hometown journeys to Tehran with the goal of finding a wife.IMDb 7.0TMDB 4.9
  60. 60Night of the HunchbackMovie · 1965 · 91mBased on a tale from *One Thousand and One Nights*, the story follows the aftermath of an actor's death. It humorously depicts the various mishaps and absurd situations that arise as different individuals acquire and try to get rid of his body.IMDb 7.2TMDB 5.0
  61. 61The Glass AgencyMovie · 1998 · 108mA veteran of the Iran-Iraq War, armed and desperate, takes hostages at a travel agency. He's trying to secure funds for his wounded friend to receive necessary medical care overseas.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.6
  62. 62A Simple EventMovie · 1973 · 80mThis is the story of a ten-year-old Iranian boy living with his mother and father on the northern coast. He assists his father with his illegal fishing and helps his mother with shopping and fetching water. The three share a single room and live a very difficult life, with the boy's daily diet consisting only of bread and milk. Their world changes when his mother passes away.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.0
  63. 63Hajji WashingtonMovie · 1983 · 100mHajji Hossein-Gholi Noori (Haji Baba) travels to Washington D.C. to become Iran's first ambassador to the United States. Following the opening of the embassy, he finds himself unable to secure visits from American officials. Due to the Persian government's failure to adequately fund the embassy, Haji dismisses the staff. One night, President Grover Cleveland unexpectedly visits him.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.4
  64. 64DesideriumMovie · 1977 · 120mDesiderium follows the ill-fated romances of three brothers. Majid, the youngest and physically disabled, falls for Aghdas, a woman hired by his brother Habib to entertain him, unaware of her profession. Karim, the middle brother, is consumed by affection for a quail, neglecting his wife and her feelings. Habib himself is in love with Foroogh, a tailor who lives with them, but his concern for Majid prevents him from pursuing her.IMDb 8.1TMDB 6.7
  65. 65The Brick and the MirrorMovie · 1966 · 131mHashem, a taxi driver, discovers an abandoned baby in the back seat of his cab after giving a ride to a young woman. He and his girlfriend, Taji, struggle to decide what to do with the unexpected child. Hashem wants to discard the baby, but Taji is determined to keep him.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.8
  66. 66NargessMovie · 1992 · 100mThis film offers a keen observation of individuals who exist beyond the boundaries of Islamic law.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.0
  67. 67Under the Skin of the NightMovie · 1974 · 95mDuring his everyday walks, Ghasem Siah, a young man without a job who lives on the streets, meets a young American tourist spending her final day in Tehran. Despite not sharing a common language, they form a friendship, and she agrees to spend the night with him. However, Ghasem has no place to call his own, and she is leaving the following morning. They embark on a search for a private moment together through the vibrant yet challenging streets of 1970s Tehran, as time runs out.IMDb 7.3TMDB 5.7
  68. 68Dead EndMovie · 1977 · 95mLiving with her mother at the end of a quiet street, a young woman becomes aware of a man who consistently watches her room from across the street. Gradually, she becomes accustomed to his presence and develops feelings for him.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3
  69. 69Turtles Can FlyMovie · 2005 · 98m · DramaTurtles Can Fly follows a group of young children living near the Turkey-Iraq border. They spend their days clearing landmines, patiently awaiting the end of Saddam Hussein's rule.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.8
  70. 70KimiaMovie · 1995 · 92mAmidst the chaos of the Iran-Iraq War, Reza’s wife dies shortly after giving birth to their child. Reza is captured as a prisoner of war. Years later, Shokooh discovers Reza’s daughter and raises her as her own. Eventually, Reza is reunited with his daughter.IMDb 6.2TMDB 4.2
  71. 71Captain KhorshidMovie · 1987 · 117mCaptain Khorshid, a one-armed sailor, skillfully navigates his small boat. In his village, a harsh climate and difficult life lead to dangerous criminals being exiled there. Seeking a way to escape, they approach a broker to arrange passage with Khorshid. He's asked to illegally transport them out of the country on his boat. Initially hesitant, Khorshid agrees to the job due to the desperate circumstances of the villagers' lives.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.2
  72. 72Green AshesMovie · 1994 · 98mFilmmaker Hadi travels to Croatia to finish research for his movie. Before he leaves, his friend Aziz gives him a cassette tape, a photograph, and a fragment of a plaque – clues to find a woman named Fatima. With the help of Hanifa, a Bosnian woman who speaks Farsi, Hadi embarks on a search for Fatima.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.3
  73. 73The RavenMovie · 1977 · 120mWhile searching for a new story for his TV show, Mr. Esalat sees a newspaper ad about a missing girl. The girl's picture looks strangely familiar. His wife, Asieh, a teacher, often transcribes his mother’s old diary at home. When he traces the address in the ad, he discovers it's from 30 years ago. Asieh becomes increasingly curious about the missing girl.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.0
  74. 74The Wind Will Carry UsMovie · 1999 · 118m · DramaAn urban engineer named Behzad travels to a remote village in Iran to care for a sick relative. Adjusting to the village's customs, he undergoes a personal transformation as he navigates unfamiliar traditions. The film explores cultural differences and the strength of human connection in overcoming those differences. It blends humor, emotion, and reflection to show how challenging experiences can lead to growth and understanding.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1
  75. 75The Night It RainedMovie · 1967 · 35mOriginally prohibited for seven years, the film presents the disputed and controversial account from a newspaper about a young man who saved a train from disaster as a complex, multi-perspective story, similar to Rashomon.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.2
  76. 76The Blue-VeiledMovie · 1995 · 85mFollowing his wife's passing, a tomato farm and sauce factory owner finds himself falling for one of his workers. This sparks conflict with his daughters and in-laws, who try to convince him to end the relationship. Ultimately, the elderly man chooses love.IMDb 6.8TMDB 5.0
  77. 77Snake's FangMovie · 1990 · 105mReza, a print house worker whose job has damaged his eyesight, loses his mother and leaves home overwhelmed with grief. He finds refuge in a hostel, sharing a room with Ahmad, a man caring for orphaned children affected by war. As they form a friendship, Reza learns that Ahmad's benefactor operates in the illegal market. Meanwhile, Reza’s sister suffers constant abuse and humiliation from her husband because she is unable to have children.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.0
  78. 78Dash AkolMovie · 1971 · 95mIn Shiraz, Dash Akol is admired as an honest man who lost his family's wealth assisting others. He has a rival in Kaka Rostam, a cruel and malicious individual. Dash Akol, in his forties, finds himself falling for Marjan, the daughter of the recently deceased Haji Samad, for whose estate he is responsible. He keeps his feelings hidden. When a suitor proposes to Marjan, Dash Akol struggles with his honor, feeling obligated to accept. On the wedding night, he transfers control of the family affairs to the groom. As he departs, Kaka Rostam confronts him, leading to a violent fight. Rostam stabs Dash Akol, but he manages to kill his attacker. Dying, Dash Akol sends his parrot to Marjan with a declaration of love he had taught it.IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.7
  79. 79The NeedMovie · 1992 · 82mTo support his mother, Ali seeks employment. His uncle secures him a position at a print shop, only to discover the job was already promised to someone else.IMDb 6.9TMDB 4.8
  80. 80HomeworkMovie · 1989 · 78m · DocumentaryThis documentary explores the lives of Iranian schoolboys as they discuss their experiences with homework. The film offers a direct look at how academic pressures shape their lives. Through personal interviews, viewers see how homework affects their well-being, relationships, and hopes for the future. The documentary gently reveals cultural norms and encourages us to consider the purpose of homework in today's schools. It provides a rare glimpse into a world often unseen, prompting reflection on the educational experiences of young people in Iran and around the world.Stream onIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.5
  81. 81The RunnerMovie · 1984 · 94mAmiro, an orphaned boy, lives a solitary life in a derelict tanker in Abadan, Iran. He earns a living shining shoes, selling water, and collecting recyclable bottles. He often clashes with both adults and other children, but finds comfort in dreaming of ships and planes leaving the port – and in running away.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.2
  82. 82Water, Wind, DustMovie · 2000 · 75mA teenage boy returns to his village in Iran only to discover it's deserted due to a devastating drought. He embarks on a search for his family, navigating a strikingly barren landscape. The film explores the conflict between humanity and nature, and holds significance for its technical aspects and portrayal of Iranian culture.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.7
  83. 83The Color of ParadiseMovie · 1999 · 88m · Family, DramaThis moving story centers on Mohammed, a young blind boy living in Tehran. After finishing school for the visually impaired, he gets a summer break he's been looking forward to. But this time off becomes difficult as his father struggles with his feelings about Mohammed’s blindness. When the father arrives late to pick up Mohammed, he pleads with the school headmaster to keep him at the school for the summer. The headmaster gently refuses, believing Mohammed needs the opportunity to experience life outside. Despite the headmaster's kindness, the father is still troubled by shame as he takes Mohammed home. This drama explores acceptance, strength, and how family can help overcome hard times.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.6
  84. 84MotherMovie · 1990 · 108mThe film follows two connected storylines. One centers on a family of young people reuniting with their aging mother, sharing cherished childhood memories. The other depicts the elderly woman preparing for her final journey and happily participating in the arrangements for the ceremonies following her passing.IMDb 8.4TMDB 7.6
  85. 85Mum's GuestMovie · 2004 · 108mA struggling mother is preparing for a dinner party with guests, but she's overwhelmed by the challenge of putting everything together with very little to work with.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.2
  86. 86South of the CityMovie · 1958Effat recounts her life to Mahmoud, hoping to persuade him to reconsider his decision to divorce his wife.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.7
  87. 87JourneyMovie · 1972 · 34mTwo impoverished boys embark on a journey from downtown to uptown in search of their father. Driven by hunger, they navigate a series of challenging encounters and dangerous locations throughout the night. Their daily quest becomes a desperate search for identity and purpose.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.0
  88. 88The White BalloonMovie · 1995 · 85m · Drama, FamilyA young girl sets out to buy a goldfish for her aquarium, unaware that strangers will try to take advantage of her naivete. As she walks through the city with her savings, she encounters different people who show her both kindness and greed. The film explores trust, vulnerability, and the pursuit of money, all viewed through the eyes of an innocent child. Her journey highlights the importance of protecting innocence in a world that often challenges it.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4
  89. 89KnucklebonesMovie · 1971 · 98mBorzoo’s wife is unhappy with his gambling. He resolves to stop, making a personal vow. However, his friend Ali desperately needs money for his sister's wedding. Borzoo breaks his vow to gamble and provides the funds. This decision unleashes unforeseen and devastating consequences for him and other gamblers.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.0
  90. 90The MongolsMovie · 1973 · 92mA television series director, struggling to finish his first feature film screenplay, is assigned to oversee the setup of a television relay station in a remote area of Zahedan province. He has already hired local Turkmen and chosen the filming location for his movie. His wife, researching the Mongol invasion of Iran for her Ph.D., tries to talk him out of the assignment. While working on his show, the director imagines a world blending all his projects: film history, the Mongol invasion, his own film, and the upcoming desert assignment.IMDb 6.6TMDB 7.4
  91. 91BoutiqueMovie · 2003 · 113mA clothing store worker named Jahan encounters a young woman named Eti who is struggling with poverty. Jahan attempts to assist Eti and resolve her difficulties, but…IMDb 6.5TMDB 7.0
  92. 92DownpourMovie · 1972 · 130mMoving to a new neighborhood for a teaching position, the awkward and bookish Mr. Hekmati struggles to fit in.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.4
  93. 93Journey to ChazzabehMovie · 1996 · 84mVahid is making a film about the war and asks his musician friend, Ali, to compose the theme music. Ali is hesitant, so they travel together to visit the actual locations of the conflict.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.7
  94. 94Once Upon a Time, CinemaMovie · 1992 · 92mThe film centers on The Cinematographer, who searches for a woman named Atieh (Future). When he calls out her name, he is magically transported from early 20th-century times to 19th-century Iran, during the reign of Naser al-Din Shah. Captured by the Shah's guards, he projects films showcasing the history of Iranian cinema. The Shah is captivated by this seemingly magical spectacle and eagerly shares it with his family.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.3
  95. 95Bashu, the Little StrangerMovie · 1991 · 120mAmidst the chaos of the Iran-Iraq War, young Bashu is orphaned and homeless. Fleeing the destruction, he hides on a truck and ends up in a region of the country vastly different from his own. There, he encounters Naii, a mother struggling to care for her two young children while her husband is away on the farm. Though separated by culture and language, Bashu and Naii gradually develop a deep connection.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.3
  96. 96Salaam CinemaMovie · 1995 · 75m · Documentary, Drama, ComedyDirector Makhmalbaf breaks from tradition by holding open auditions, attracting hundreds of hopefuls. Instead of rejecting this large response, he chooses to make a film about the casting process itself – the screen tests and the people who take part. The movie explores their reasons for wanting to act, their aspirations, and their personal lives, offering an unusual look at the world of acting and human nature.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.5
  97. 97Marriage of the BlessedMovie · 1989 · 75mHaji returns from the Iraq War deeply traumatized and struggles to readjust to civilian life. His fiancée supports him as they both defy their families and the government to forge their own path.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3
  98. 98The CowMovie · 1969 · 105m · DramaIn a peaceful village, an old farmer shares a deep bond with his beloved cow. He must leave the cow with neighbors for a short trip to the city. But when he returns, he learns the cow has died while he was away. This devastating news brings grief and anger to the village. The community grapples with the farmer’s loss, exploring themes of love, loss, and the close-knit nature of rural life.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.7
  99. 99So Close, So FarMovie · 2005 · 121mDr. Alam, a highly respected neurologist and surgeon, has become so consumed by his career and social life that he's drifted apart from his son. On his son's birthday, Dr. Alam learns a startling truth about his son's health, prompting him to search for him.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9
  100. 100A Party in HellMovie · 1957 · 111mHaji Jabbar, a wealthy man often criticized for his greed, plans to marry his daughter Parvin to an older, wealthy man. He ignores the love between Parvin and her cousin and neglects his son Hamid, who is struggling with mental health issues. The film's final act is a fantastical journey to hell, where Haji witnesses grotesque and elaborate tortures. Known for its detailed sets reminiscent of Méliès, the film includes a sequence featuring Hitler in hell.IMDb 6.3TMDB 4.6