The Cannes Film Festival, which began on May 13, has already delivered several unforgettable moments in cinema. Among these highlights is It Was Just an Accident, directed by Jafar Panahi, which clinched the coveted Palme d’Or award.
According to Variety, the film draws from Panahi’s personal experiences during his imprisonment. The story centers on five individuals who believe they have identified the prosecutor responsible for torturing them while in custody. However, because they were blindfolded during their detention, they remain uncertain whether they have pinpointed the same person.
Panahi, who first attended Cannes in 2003, dedicated his victory to all Iranians. Speaking to Reuters, he expressed a hopeful message: “Hoping that we will reach a day when no one will tell us what to wear or not wear, what to do or not do.” This statement was widely interpreted as a critique of the strict dress codes imposed on Iranian women.
The director also shared his appreciation for his family’s unwavering support, especially during periods when he was separated from them. He extended thanks to his entire team for making the daring project possible, acknowledging the risks involved.
Panahi further appealed to the Iranian community worldwide, urging unity despite differing opinions. “I’d like to ask them one thing: Put all the problems and differences aside. The most important thing is surely our country and the freedom of our country,” he said.
Known for his courageous filmmaking, Panahi has faced repeated imprisonment due to the controversial nature of his work. Most recently, in 2022, he was jailed for over seven months following a hunger strike before his release, as reported by Screen Rant.
