Zim and Iran commit to cultural exchange through c...

Zim and Iran commit to cultural exchange through cinema

Audrey Galawu

The Cinema Society of Zimbabwe, together with the Iranian Embassy, held a Persian film showcase at the Nicoz Diamond Theatre, an event that is engaging in cross-cultural exchange.

Iran and Zimbabwe have both committed to foster cultural collaborations and deepen cultural ties.

Speaking at the event, cultural counsellor at the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Hamid Bakhtiyar said with such events, both parties intend to establish interaction between Zimbabwean and Iranian cinematographers.

“Iran has had a very strong film industry in the last half century. At the same time, the government’s support for cinema has been strong and appropriate, both in terms of investments in films and in terms of creating cinema houses and organising festivals.

“Before the Islamic revolution, Iranian cinema was dominated by superficial and vulgar films. Religious, mystical and moral themes had no place in movies before the Islamic Revolution.

“In the years after the victory of the Islamic Revolution, magnificent and lasting films were produced in various fields,” he said.

Bakhtiyar said the concepts of Iranian cinema are all about human values, namely family and social issues.

“Currently, Iranian cinema has serious things to say in the region and the world.

“Iranian cinema films have gradually become more modern and professional in line with the developments and trends of world cinema, and this has been aided by the latest film production techniques.

“Iranian cinema, while appreciating the values, and creating satisfaction and a deep sense of cultural belonging and identity, has had powerful messages to pass and influence in the world.

“Iranian cinema has always had a successful and proud presence at the global level and in regional and international festivals, and women have played a great role in Iranian cinema after the Islamic Revolution,” he added.