Iranian Cinema's Legacy at Risk: 10 Films Show What War Could Destroy

• Iranian cinema, born from post-1979 revolution constraints, developed unique techniques like docufiction and non-professional actors, earning international acclaim.
• Filmmakers like Kiarostami, Farhadi, and Panahi achieved global recognition, winning major awards despite strict state censorship and rocky relations with the regime.
• The article highlights 10 influential Iranian films, including "A Separation" and "Close-Up," showcasing their artistic innovation and critical insights into society.
• These films demonstrate how Iranian directors used limitations to foster formal innovation, addressing themes of class, morality, and political critique.
• With looming war, this rich cinematic tradition faces extinction, underscoring the cultural cost of geopolitical conflict.