Israeli city to host Iranian film, culture festival

The Israeli city of Sderot will host Israel’s first Iranian Film and Culture Festival, titled “Nowruz”, at the end of November.

Taking place on November 24–25 at the Cinematheque in the western Negev city, the festival will celebrate cinema and music, Caliber.Az reports citing Jewish News.

Initiated by artist, cultural researcher, social entrepreneur, and speaker Dana Sameach in partnership with the Municipality of Sderot, the event aims to showcase the power of culture to unite hearts and nations.

“In a world filled with threats and the clashing of swords, culture reminds us that there is another language, a language of emotion, beauty, and human connection,” Sameach said.

The event will be broadcast live on social media, and Sameach hopes that viewers in the Islamic Republic will be able to tune in and witness the respect and interest the Israeli audience shows toward Iranian culture.

“At the same time, it’s important for the Iranian public to see our genuine interest in their culture and cinema. If even one Iranian viewer connects to the broadcast and sees us speaking from a place of love – we’ve already achieved something great,” she noted.

Guests at the festival will enjoy a performance by a traditional Persian music ensemble and screenings of two contemporary Iranian films — Reading Lolita and Agent.

By Jeyhun Aghazada