Iranian Director's Film Becomes Germany's Oscar Entry Despite Controversy

Mohammad Rasoulof's politically charged film, secretly shot in Iran, highlights protests and family dynamics while facing criticism for representing Germany at the Oscars.

• Mohammad Rasoulof's film 'Die Saat des heiligen Feigenbaums' has been selected as Germany's official entry for the 2025 Academy Awards despite being in Farsi and centered on Iranian themes.
• The film explores the aftermath of protests in Iran following the death of Jina Mahsa Amini, focusing on a family's divided reactions and moral dilemmas under a repressive regime.
• Rasoulof secretly filmed the movie in Iran while facing an eight-year prison sentence for his activism and critical portrayals of the Iranian government, later fleeing the country to complete the project in exile.
• The film received widespread acclaim, including a standing ovation at its Cannes premiere, but its selection as Germany's Oscar contender has sparked debate over eligibility criteria and national representation.
• Iran has initiated legal proceedings against Rasoulof and members of the film's crew, with some still residing within the country under uncertain circumstances.

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