The masterclass will be conducted in Persian with simultaneous English translation.
Iranian filmmaker and screenwriter Asghar Farhadi is set to lead a two-day masterclass in Dubai on May 30 and 31 (corresponding to the 9th and 10th of Khordad), marking his first such event in the city. Organised by Bamdad International House in collaboration with Tangie Event & Media Production, the masterclass promises a rare opportunity for cinema enthusiasts and professionals to engage directly with the filmmaker.
The first session will focus on the art of screenwriting, taking participants through the entire process from concept development to final script. The second day will shift to the craft of directing, offering insights into Farhadi’s unique creative approach behind the camera.
Farhadi, a two-time Academy Award winner for A Separation and The Salesman, is known for his deeply human narratives and nuanced storytelling. His work has earned numerous international honours, including the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival for A Hero and the Silver Bear for Best Director at the Berlin Film Festival for About Elly. The latter film notably marked a turning point in modern cinema, prompting praise from legendary actor Robert De Niro, who described it as “a mesmerising story that breaks through borders and deepens our understanding of a shared world.”
Farhadi began his cinematic career with his first feature film, Dancing in the Dust in 2003. His international fame grew with his fourth film, About Elly, in 2009, which won the Silver Bear for Best Director at the 59th Berlin International Film Festival.
Asghar Farhadi has significantly enhanced the status of Iranian cinema on the international stage. His films are known for their narrative style that addresses social and ethical issues through multi-dimensional and realistic characters. Farhadi uses everyday tensions and intricate details to build dramatic plots that explore themes such as honour, justice and human relationships.
In recognition of his artistic achievements, Farhadi has been named among Foreign Policy magazine’s top 100 global thinkers and was awarded the French Order of Arts and Letters, a testament to his impact on global arts and culture.
The upcoming masterclass will be conducted in Persian, with simultaneous English translation available, allowing a broader international audience to benefit from Farhadi’s insights and experience.
