Saeed Roustayi's film, "Woman and Child," is generating controversy ahead of its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival 2025 [1, 2, 3]. The film has sparked debate within Iran's filmmaking community [1]. Some critics label it as propaganda because it was produced with government permission and the female cast wears hijabs [1].
The Iranian Independent Filmmakers Association (IIFMA) views the film as a betrayal of the "Woman, Life, Freedom" movement [1, 10]. However, director Mohammad Rasoulof defends Roustayi, emphasizing the distinction between propaganda and films made under censorship [1]. Rasoulof argues against blocking filmmakers from international festivals, supporting artistic freedom [1].
Roustayi describes "Woman and Child" as a story of female empowerment against a patriarchal society [1, 3]. He acknowledges obtaining a government permit but insists the film is an independent work [1]. The film stars Parinaz Izadyar as Mahnaz, a widowed nurse struggling with a rebellious son, played by Payman Maadi [2, 3, 8]. As she plans her wedding to Hamid, an unexpected tragedy forces her to fight for what's right [2, 3]. The film is scheduled to premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2025 [3].