Rasoulof’s was not allowed to go to the Cannes Film Festival, where his latest work “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” was set to premiere. The travel ban underscores the stifling environment for artistic expression in Iran.
He received international acclaim for his film “There Is No Evil,” which delves into Iran’s use of the death penalty. But has repeatedly faced censorship and persecution in his homeland.
As the filmmaker seeks refuge in Europe, his plight serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by artists in repressive regimes, and the enduring power of creativity in the face of adversity.
Despite the severity of the sentence, Iranian authorities have remained silent on the matter, refusing to comment on the case or acknowledge Rasoulof’s departure from the country.
