Synopsis: Twelve strangers embark on the Trans-Asia Express, a four-day train journey from Tehran to Istanbul. Amongst them are Marjan, a girl with a bag full of money and embezzlement documents, Moosa, a man searching for his lost sister, Atousa a beautiful femme fatale, Dr.Taheri, the train"s physician, and a couple of tourists. When Marjan"s bag is stolen, everyone becomes a suspect. Overcoming spatial constrictions with innovative camera technique to tell its captivating story, this film was shot entirely on a moving train in five days. Part of the New Directions in Iranian Cinema Showcase, filmmakers expected in attendance for post-film Q&A after their East Coast Premiere. Facebook Event Page
Community College of Philadelphia
1700 Spring Garden St, Philadelphia
Synopsis: Set in urban Tehran, this uncertainty-inducing film offers a surrealist reflection on contemporary Iranian culture. Two girlfriends, Arineh and Nobahar try to make their way home after a night of partying. After getting in an accident, a mysterious stranger pays off the driver of the car they hit; his only request their company. They soon discover that nothing is as simple as it seems as lines between dreams and reality become increasingly blurry. Part of the New Directions in Iranian Cinema Showcase, this film blends meticulous camera composition and a plot laden with magic realism to convey a story steeped with criticism of Iranian society, gender bias, and US imposed economic sanctions. Facebook Event Page
Lightbox Film Center
3701 Chestnut St, Philadelphia
Synopsis: Beautifully shot feature that unfolds more like a drama than a documentary, Atlan tells the story of Turkman horse trainer Ali in the rural Northeastern region of Iran. Horses are an inseparable part of life in the semi-traditional environment of the Turkmen Sahara. One horse called Ilhlan is Ali"s favorite, but he must sell Ilhlan in order to pay for his wedding. The diary-like narrative is presented via Ali"s voice-over and accompanied by beautiful, broad vistas of the inhospitable Turkmen landscape, impressions of the well-attended races, and images of powerful horses. A slice of life film that depicts a subject few outside the region have laid eyes on, this film embodies an exciting new movement within Iranian cinema. Part of the New Directions in Iranian Cinema Showcase. Facebook Event Page
