Taze nafasha (The Newborns)

The Iranian revolution of 1979 overthrew the Shah and introduced a new regime: the Islamic Republic of Iran. In the first months after the revolution, the masses poured onto the streets to discuss a possible post-revolutionary future. Kianoush Ayari mingled with the people with his 16mm camera to capture the democratic spirit of the revolution in its infancy. He recorded scenes with the various groups involved in the revolution, creating a rare document of this historic moment. As the producer, Iranian state television did not agree with Ayari's integrative approach. Post-production of the film was stopped before Ayari could add his commentary. Years later, Ayari discovered the unfinished copy of his film and released it digitally to spread the spirit of the failed utopia of freedom. (Tara Najd Ahmadi)

Introduction and discussion with Philip Widmann and Tara Najd Ahmadi. In English language

Photo: Austrian Film Museum