Filmmakers often use life experiences as inspirations in their creative work. Iranian director Jafar Panahi used his detrimental filmmaking ban as a muse to create a compelling film, 3 Faces.

While Panahi directed and produced the dramatic film, he also plays the role of a supporting character. The recurring theme of censorship often plays an integral role in Panahi’s films, but 3 Faces has been recognized for its shift from the filmmaker’s oppressed and restricted lifestyle to the subject of Iranian womanhood and independence.

Moreover, the film has developed its high status through its admirable Iranian cast and crew. While 3 Faces was produced within Panahi’s own film production company Jafar Panahi Productions, the film had been distributed by Celluloid Dreams, a French distribution company that states they are designated to support ‘high-profile, director-driven independent films.’

FCC supports and encourages films that allow for co-production opportunities within Farsi-speaking films. Exploiting international production and distribution companies as a method to promote collaborations with multicultural films will benefit and enhance not only the future of Farsi cinema, but shape the time to come for global art.

3 Faces will be part of TIFF’s North American Premieres this month.