Juliette Binoche, Pedro Almodovar, and other prominent filmmakers have signed a petition supporting Maryam Moghaddam and Behtash Sanaeeha, whose trial for alleged misconduct related to their film “My Favourite Cake” begins in Iran. The film has received international acclaim yet faces criticism in Iran. The ICFR petition seeks to have all charges dropped against the filmmakers.
Renowned actors Juliette Binoche and Pedro Almodovar, along with filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof, have signed a petition advocating for the filmmakers Maryam Moghaddam and Behtash Sanaeeha. Their trial commences tomorrow in Iran, prompted by allegations related to their feature film, “My Favourite Cake,” which debuted at the Berlin Film Festival in 2024, earning both the Fipresci Prize and the Ecumenical Jury Award.
Moghaddam and Sanaeeha are charged with various offenses, including “propaganda against the regime,” and producing a film deemed “obscene” as well as “offending public decency.” They also face accusations of screening the film without necessary distribution licenses. The International Coalition for Filmmakers at Risk (ICFR) has initiated a petition urging Iranian authorities to drop all charges against the filmmakers and restore their rights.
The petition has succeeded in garnering over 3,200 signatures from prominent figures, including Céline Sciamma and Agnieszka Holland, and leading festival executives like Alberto Barbera of Venice. The film, which follows a 70-year-old woman seeking love and adventure, has received critical acclaim but has also faced backlash for its depictions of women and alcohol use in Iran.
Moreover, the Iranian government has imposed travel bans on Moghaddam and Sanaeeha for the last two years, obstructing their attendance at significant film events, including Berlin. Their upcoming trial is set to take place at Iran’s Revolutionary Court, posing serious implications for their artistic freedom. Meanwhile, “My Favourite Cake” has been sold in over 40 territories globally, highlighting its international appeal despite local challenges.
In summary, the petition to support Maryam Moghaddam and Behtash Sanaeeha emerges as a crucial gesture from the global film community in response to their impending trial in Iran. The charges against them raise significant concerns about creative freedom and artistic expression in oppressive regimes. The international support they are receiving could play a vital role in their fight against the accusations.
Original Source: www.screendaily.com
