Jafar Panahi reflects on his Iran prison sentence: 'I understand my films don't please the government' but 'I will return'

Jafar Panahi, the acclaimed filmmaker and Cannes winner, recently addressed his prison sentence in Iran during a conversation at the Marrakech Film Festival in Morocco. Despite the legal troubles, Panahi expressed his determination to return to Iran once he completes his Oscar campaign for his latest film, It Was Just an Accident.

"I have only one passport," Panahi said in Persian, with the help of an English translator. "This is my country's passport, and I want to keep it." His words highlight his deep connection to Iran, despite facing numerous obstacles from the regime.

On Monday, Panahi was sentenced in absentia to one year in prison in Iran, charged with "propaganda activities" against the state. His lawyer, Mostafa Nili, confirmed the sentence also includes a two-year travel ban and a prohibition from joining any political or social organizations. Nili announced plans to appeal the decision.

In his speech, Panahi emphasized that despite the harsh years, he never considered leaving his homeland or seeking refuge abroad. "Even in the hardest years, I never thought about becoming a refugee," he said. "My country is where I can breathe, where I find my reason to live and the strength to create. The challenges Iran is facing are temporary, just like the struggles any society goes through."

In 2010, Panahi faced a six-year prison sentence and a 20-year ban on making films, giving interviews, or traveling abroad. Though he served a brief time in jail, Panahi defied the ban by secretly filming and smuggling his work outside Iran. His persistence continued when he was arrested again in 2022, spending seven months in prison before going on a hunger strike. He was released two days after vowing to refuse food, water, and medication until his release.

Despite government attempts to suppress his work, Panahi remains resolute in his plans to return to Iran after his Oscar campaign for It Was Just an Accident concludes. "Ive been working day and night on this Oscar campaign for over three months," he shared. "This sentence came in the middle of it, but I will finish the campaign and return to Iran as soon as I can."

The film follows a group of former political prisoners who hold a man hostage, believing he is their tormentor. Panahi revealed that the storyline was inspired by his own experience as a political prisoner, facing interrogation by anonymous authorities.

During his masterclass at the festival, Panahi shared advice for aspiring filmmakers in the audience. "There are two kinds of filmmakers," he began. "Those who cater to the audiences tastes and expectations, and the 5% who make films based on what they believe is right, regardless of public opinion." He encouraged filmmakers to pursue their vision and emphasized the importance of being true to oneself. "If you decide to be part of the 5%, youll face consequences, whether economic in the West or political in a country like mine," he added. "But I am aware of the price, and I accept it. My films do not please the government, but that will not stop me from returning to my country. I will go back."

The audience responded with a standing ovation, showing their admiration for his courage and determination. It Was Just an Accident was scheduled to be screened at the Marrakech Film Festival on Thursday.

Author: Connor Blake