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Persian movies have become renowned worldwide for their captivating portrayals of social realism. These films intricately weave together narratives that depict individuals caught between the demands of tradition and the allure of modernity. Within each frame, audiences are transported into the lives of characters wrestling with personal aspirations, all while grappling with the weight of societal norms and expectations. The cinematic journey navigates a delicate balance, delicately interweaving political and religious undertones to shed light on the complex dynamics of Iranian society.
Through the lens of Persian movies, viewers are invited to delve into the rich tapestry of human experience. Each movie serves as a powerful exploration of the intricate interplay between personal agency and the structures that shape everyday life. As the characters embark on their individual quests, their stories become windows into a larger sociopolitical landscape, prompting reflection and introspection. Iranian filmmakers masterfully capture the essence of the human condition, crafting narratives that resonate on a universal level while offering unique insights into the complexities of Iranian culture. From the emotional journeys of individuals yearning for freedom to the gripping narratives that challenge societal norms, Iranian cinema stands as a testament to the power of storytelling to bridge cultures and foster understanding. Here are the 50 must watch Persian language movies:
1. Mother (1990)
In Ali Hatami’s film “Mother,” one of the best old Persian movies, an elderly woman leaves her nursing home to spend her final days with her busy children. Her presence in their home becomes a powerful force, bringing the family together and introducing us to the film’s captivating characters. Through this heartfelt narrative, Hatami reminds us of the unbreakable bonds of family and the transformative power of a mother’s love.
2. The Lizard (2004)
Kamal Tabrizi’s “Lizard” is one of the delightful comedy Persian movies that pays homage to Charlie Chaplin’s classics while infusing it with local flavor. Set against the backdrop of Tehran, this film takes us on a whimsical adventure, blending humor and social commentary. With its charming filming locations including Ahar, the mosque, and the school of Haj Qanbar Ali Khan, Lizard offers a spirited exploration of spirituality and society.
3. Desiderium (1978)
“Desiderium,” a Persian movie by Ali Hatami, explores the complex dynamics of an old Tehran family. With Jamshid Mashayekhi as the responsible elder brother and Behrouz Vossoughi portraying the younger brother with mental disorders, the film delves into moral issues prevalent in Iranian society. Through the story of Habib’s excessive devotion to Majid, Hatami highlights the unintended consequences of misplaced priorities. “Desiderium” stands as a poignant depiction of family bonds and the ethical challenges faced by individuals.
4. A Separation (2011)
“A Separation,” one of the top Persian movies produced in 2011, took home the coveted Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film in 2012. Directed, written, and produced by Asghar Farhadi, the movie explores the intricate dynamics of a family torn apart by diverging desires. Simin wants to leave Iran with her husband Nader and daughter Terme, but Nader refuses to abandon his ailing father. As their differences escalate, Simin seeks a divorce, leading to a series of tragic events that leave a lasting impact on their lives.
5. Children of Heaven (1997)
“Children of Heaven,” a 1997 Persian movie directed by Majid Majidi, holds immense cultural significance. With its heartfelt story of sibling love and resilience, the movie captivated audiences worldwide, showcasing the power of storytelling from Iran.
6. Close-Up (1990)
“Close-up,” a remarkable Persian movie directed by Abbas Kiarostami as one of the best Iranian directors.
Set in 1990, “Close-up” stands as a shining example of documentary cinema and realism. Through its captivating storytelling based on a true story, Close-up offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of its characters. The film’s unique approach and Kiarostami’s masterful direction garnered attention from critics and brought greater awareness of his distinct style to Western society.
7. The Color of Paradise (1999)
“The Color of Paradise”, a captivating Persian movie directed by Majid Majidi in 1999, marks the fourth feature film in his impressive repertoire. The story revolves around Mohsen Ramezani, a blind child studying at a school for the blind, who returns home to spend the holidays with his father, Hashem. The film delves into the profound journey of Mohsen as he navigates the complexities of life, offering a poignant exploration of love, acceptance, and the beauty found within the human spirit. Majidi’s masterful storytelling and heartfelt direction bring forth a deeply moving cinematic experience in “The Color of Paradise”.
8. The Cow (1969)
“The Cow,” a 1969 Persian movie directed by Dariush Mehrjui, depicts the poignant story of Mash Hassan’s deep attachment to his only cow. When the cow unexpectedly dies, Mash Hassan’s mental state deteriorates, leading to a tragic outcome. The film explores themes of attachment, loss, and the human psyche, leaving a lasting impression.
9. Where Is the Friend’s House? (1987)
In the captivating Persian movie, “Where is the Friend’s House?” masterfully directed and written by the renowned Abbas Kiarostami, we are taken on a poignant journey through the eyes of a young schoolboy. Set in the year 1365, the story revolves around a simple yet profound quest that unfolds with remarkable sincerity. Our protagonist, a diligent student, inadvertently takes his friend’s notebook home, triggering an unwavering sense of responsibility within him.
10. Bashu, the Little Stranger (1989)
In the midst of the Iran-Iraq war, “Basho, the Little Stranger” takes us on a journey directed and written by Bahram Beyzaie.
After escaping the devastation of his home and family, Basho finds himself in the north of Iran, unable to communicate with the locals. His path crosses with Nai, a woman working the paddy fields with her children. Despite the language barrier, Nai extends kindness to Basho, and their unspoken connection grows as he helps her and her family. Amidst challenges and misunderstandings, Basho’s presence becomes pivotal, culminating in a poignant reunion and an unexpected unity in the face of adversity.
11. Hamoon (1990)
Directed by Dariush Mehrjui, “Hamoon” is a social and surreal Persian movie made in 1990. It follows the turbulent life of Hamid Hamon, who, while writing about love and faith, seeks out his old friend Ali Abedini. Amidst a backdrop of post-revolution concerns, the film explores the clash between idealism and worldly desires. With surreal twists and turns, “Hamoon” delves into the complexities of personal ideals and the sacrifices made in their pursuit.
12. Life and a Day (2016)
In Saeed Roustaee’s new Persian movie “Life and a Day,” we meet Somayeh, a young girl facing a crucial decision about her impending marriage to an Afghan man. Balancing the weight of responsibility for her troubled family, plagued by addiction, poverty, and conflicts, Somayeh must choose between her own happiness and the obligations that bind her. This poignant film explores the complexities of familial struggles and the power of personal choice.
13. Turtles Can Fly (2004)
Directed by Bahman Ghobadi, “Turtles Can Fly” is a powerful war and drama film made in 2004. Set on the Iraq-Turkey border during the American invasion of Iraq, the movie follows a group of Kurdish people navigating the hardships of life in a refugee camp. Led by Cocksatellite, they install satellite antennas and collect mines. When Agrin and her brother arrive, their tragic past and the psychological toll they carry become central to the story. “Turtles Can Fly” portrays the relentless struggle for survival in the midst of a war with poignant realism.
14. Redhat and Cousin (1995)
Iraj Tahmasab’s Persian movie, “Redhat and Cousin,” produced in 1995, tells the tale of Redhat’s mischievous journey. After being expelled from school and struggling to find work, she turns to television, becoming entangled in the marriage plans of her favorite TV host, Mr. Mojri. This quirky and lighthearted film explores the consequences of her well-intentioned interference.
15. About Elly (2009)
Asghar Farhadi’s remarkable Persian movie, “About Elly,” co-produced with Seyed Mahmoud Razavi in 2009, made a significant impact on Iranian cinema. Praised by both critics and audiences, it received the prestigious Silver Bear for Best Director at the 2009 Berlin International Film Festival. Farhadi’s masterful use of realism in “About Elly” ushered in a new wave of filmmaking in Iran, captivating viewers with its authentic portrayal of human experiences.
16. The Glass Agency (1998)
Directed by Ebrahim Hatamikia, “The Glass Agency” is a compelling Persian movie produced in 1998. The film follows Abbas Heydari, a former Iran-Iraq warfighter nearing death from a war injury. In a race against time, his comrade Haj Kazem takes drastic measures, including hostage-taking at an airline agency, to secure life-saving treatment in London. This gripping tale delves into themes of sacrifice and the bonds forged in the crucible of war.
17. The Song of Sparrows (2008)
Directed and produced by Majid Majidi, the Iranian drama film “The Song of Sparrows” was released in 2008. The story revolves around Karim, portrayed by Reza Naji, who works at an ostrich farm until he loses his job after an ostrich escapes. Determined to provide for his family, Karim embarks on a new job in Tehran, only to encounter fresh challenges in his personal life. “The Song of Sparrows” beautifully captures Karim’s journey of resilience as he navigates the ups and downs of his circumstances.
18. The Deer (1974)
“The Deer,” directed and written by Masoud Kimiaei, is a gripping old Persian movie produced in 1974. Behrouz Vossoughi’s award-winning performance captivates audiences. The story follows Qodrat, a wanted man who seeks refuge with his addicted friend Seyyed Rasool. As Seyyed finds newfound spiritual strength, he confronts various challenges, including troublemakers and drug dealers. When the police discover their connection, a tragic confrontation unfolds, leading to a devastating house explosion that claims both their lives. “The Deer” explores themes of redemption, addiction, and the consequences of choices made.
19. Here Without Me (2011)
“Here Without Me,” a Persian movie by Bahram Tavakoli, draws inspiration from Tennessee Williams’ “The Glass Menagerie.” Centered around a determined mother and her two children, Ehsan and Yalda, the film delves into their dreams and struggles. The arrival of Reza, Ehsan’s friend, brings transformative changes, igniting a glimmer of hope in their lives.
20. A Moment of Innocence (1996)
In Mohsen Makhmalbaf’s poignant Persian movie, “A Moment of Innocence,” made in 1996, the director confronts a defining moment from his youth. Decades later, when the former policeman approaches Makhmalbaf, seeking a film role, they embark on a journey to uncover the truth. However, the young actor’s aversion to violence challenges their pursuit of justice, offering profound insights into memory and the complexities of redemption.
21. And Life Goes On (1992)
Abbas Kiarostami’s Persian movie, “And Life Goes On,” made in 1992, portrays a father and son’s quest to find Babak and Ahmad Ahmadpour in the earthquake-affected region of Gilan province. Navigating roadblocks, they take alternate routes to reach Koker village. Though they don’t meet the boys, they receive news about their well-being, showcasing the enduring power of hope in the face of adversity.
22. Law of Tehran (2019)
“Law of Tehran,” a gripping top Persian movie by Saeed Roustaee, delves into the shadows of the city. Led by Samad, an anti-narcotics officer, the relentless pursuit of notorious glass merchant Nasser Khakzad unravels a world where justice and survival hang by a thread.
In the heart of Tehran’s underworld, “Law of Tehran” exposes the complexities of crime and the pursuit of truth. With high stakes and shifting allegiances, this intense film captures the gritty reality of a dangerous cat-and-mouse game, blurring the boundaries between law and the dark side of society.
23. White Nights (2003)
“White Nights,” directed by Farzad Motamen and written by Saeed Aqiqi, is an Iranian cinematic gem. Inspired by Dostoyevsky’s “White Nights,” this captivating film follows the intertwined lives of a disillusioned professor and a young woman named Roya. Their chance encounter sets off a chain of events, as they navigate love, separation, and the unpredictability of destiny.
In the world of Persian movies, “White Nights” shines as a testament to the power of serendipitous connections and the profound impact they can have on our lives.
24. Fireworks Wednesday (2006)
Asghar Farhadi’s third film, “Fireworks Wednesday,” explores the intricate dynamics of relationships amidst the bustling New Year festivities. Roohangiz, a young woman working for a cleaning service, enters a middle-class household on a tense Wednesday. Amidst the explosive firecrackers and an unsettling atmosphere, Mojdeh, the wife, harbors suspicions about her husband’s fidelity. As the story unfolds, secrets unravel, leading to a poignant climax that confirms Mojdeh’s initial doubts.”
25. Killing Mad Dogs (2001)
Directed by Bahram Beyzaie, “Killing Mad Dogs” is a captivating crime thriller infused with neo-noir elements. Set in Tehran and Baghistan, the film follows Golrokh Kamali, a Persian-language writer who returns to find her husband bankrupt and facing prison. As Golrokh navigates a treacherous world of deception and intrigue, she must confront her husband’s dark secrets and fight to save him from impending danger. “Killing Mad Dogs” delves into the complexities of society, unraveling a gripping tale that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats.
26. The Tenants (1987)
Dariush Mehrjui’s 1987 comedy Persian movie, “The Tenants,” defied the prevailing trends in Iranian cinema. Released during a time of clichéd and politically charged movies, it offered a unique and captivating narrative. Balancing comedy and drama, the film subtly addressed political themes while providing a refreshing and original cinematic experience. “The Tenants” stands as a remarkable departure from the norm, captivating audiences with its distinctiveness.
27. Baran (2001)
Majid Majidi’s 2001 Persian movie, “Baran,” captivated audiences and received critical acclaim. Set on a construction site, the story revolves around Latif, responsible for serving the workers. When he discovers that Rahmat, an Afghan worker’s son, is actually a girl named Baran, Latif’s anger turns into a protective instinct. As he falls in love with her, Latif becomes determined to help Baran and her family, despite the prohibition on Afghan labor. However, he soon realizes that their plan is to leave Iran forever, leading to a heartbreaking decision.
28. The Salesman (2016)
Asghar Farhadi’s 2016 Persian movie, “The Salesman,” captivated audiences worldwide. At the Cannes Film Festival, Farhadi’s screenplay earned him the Best Screenplay award, while Shahab Hosseini’s performance secured him the Best Actor accolade. This Iranian gem went on to represent the nation at the 2017 Oscars, triumphing as the Best Non-English Language Film.
Centered around Rana and Emad, a couple performing Arthur Miller’s “Death of a Salesman,” the film explores the unexpected events that unfold after they are forced to relocate due to earth subsidence, leading them down a path of unpredictable crisis.
29. Still Life (1974)
“Still Life,” directed by Sohrab Shahid-Saless in 1974, offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the secluded life of an elderly needle picker and his wife. This Persian movie beautifully explores the profound connections between humans and their environment, showcasing the intricate interplay between nature and emotions. Through stunning visuals and a heartfelt narrative, the film immerses viewers in the tranquil world of its protagonists, capturing the essence of existence and the remarkable beauty found in simplicity.
30. The Past (2013)
Asghar Farhadi’s 2013 French drama film, “Past,” takes audiences on a captivating journey through the intricacies of human connections. Premiered at the prestigious 2013 Cannes Film Festival, this cinematic masterpiece revolves around Marine (Bernice Bejo), a woman caught between the end of one relationship and the beginning of another. With a touch of mystery and heartfelt emotions, “Past” explores the complexities of love, loss, and the indelible impact of our shared history.
31. Beautiful City (2004)
Asghar Farhadi’s “Beautiful City” is a cinematic marvel that beautifully blends romance and social commentary. Released in 2004 as Farhadi’s second film, this Persian movie tells the gripping story of Akbar, a young inmate on a mission to rescue his imprisoned girlfriend. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Tehran, the film delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of society. Farhadi’s masterful direction and thought-provoking narrative make “Beautiful City” an unforgettable exploration of justice, redemption, and the enduring power of human connections.
32. Leily Is with Me (1996)
Directed, written, and edited by Kamal Tabrizi in 1996, “Leily Is with Me” is a remarkable Persian movie set during the Iran-Iraq war. This groundbreaking work combines humor with the seriousness of war, making it a pioneering example of the holy defense genre. Widely regarded as one of the best Iranian satirical films on war, “Lily Is with Me” offers a unique perspective on the human experience in times of conflict.
33. Taste of Cherry (1997)
Directed and written by Abbas Kiarostami in 1997, “Taste of Cherry” is a minimalist Persian movie that leaves a profound impact. The story follows a man in the suburbs of Tehran on a quest to find someone who will fulfill his challenging request for 200 thousand tomans. Kiarostami’s win of the Palme d’Or at the 1997 Cannes Film Festival for this film stands as a significant achievement in Iranian cinema and art. With its introspective storytelling and exploration of existential themes, “Taste of Cherry” remains a poignant masterpiece.
34. The White Balloon (1995)
In “White Balloon,” a Persian movie by Jafar Panahi and Abbas Kiarostami, we follow Razieh, a young girl on a mission to buy a Haftsin table fish. When she loses the entrusted money, Razieh embarks on a captivating quest, encountering fascinating characters and events. With the support of her brother and a mysterious balloon seller, Razieh’s determination shines through. The white balloon becomes a symbol of hope. As time runs out, Razieh succeeds in finding the money, fulfilling her mission before the year’s end. The presence of the balloon boy with his white balloon leaves us pondering the interconnectedness of our journeys.
35. Brick and Mirror (1965)
“Brick and Mirror,” a thought-provoking old Persian movie by Ebrahim Golestan, holds a significant place in the realm of Iranian cinema. The film’s title draws inspiration from the proverb “What the young see in the mirror, the old see in the raw clay.” As with Golestan’s other works, “Brick and Mirror” serves as a sharp satire on Iranian society, offering a critical lens to its complexities.
36. Hello Cinema (1995)
“Hello Cinema” is one of the old Persian movies that blurs the boundaries between reality and fiction. Directed by Mohsen Makhmalbaf, this captivating masterpiece takes us on an extraordinary journey, merging the lives of everyday people with the enchantment of the silver screen.
In a bold move, Makhmalbaf invited acting enthusiasts to gather at Bagh Ferdous to partake in an acting test for his new film. Surprisingly, around five thousand eager participants responded to the call, arriving with completed forms in hand. This convergence of dreams and unforeseen experiences forms the heart of Makhmalbaf’s cinematic creation.
37. A Time for Drunken Horses (2000)
“A Time for Drunken Horses” is Bahman Ghobadi’s debut film set on the Iran-Iraq border, featuring non-professional actors. The film won the Golden Camera at the 2000 Cannes International Film Festival. Ayoub cares for his sick siblings and seeks money for his brother’s surgery. He joins a smuggling convoy, but complications arise. A marriage proposal offers hope, but the journey takes an unexpected turn.
38. Tight Spot (1973)
“Tight Spot” is a 1973 Persian movie directed by Amir Naderi, based on Sadegh Chubak’s novel of the same name. The story revolves around Zaer Muhammad, who seeks revenge after being humiliated by local figures. He takes matters into his own hands, confronting and eliminating those who wronged him. With the help of the community, Zaer Muhammad saves his wife and children, earning him the nickname “Lion Muhammad” for his bravery. The film is known for its realistic portrayal and is set in Bushehr, featuring Persian and Bushehri dialect dialogues.
39. The Pear Tree (1998)
“The Pear Tree” is a 1998 Persian movie directed by Dariush Mehrjui. Mahmoud, an aging writer, revisits his teenage memories while participating in a ritual ceremony to revive an old pear tree. He recalls his infatuation with his cousin, Mitra, and their shared love for literature. However, their paths diverged as Mahmoud became involved in politics and eventually imprisoned. Now approaching sixty, Mahmoud struggles to complete his final book and is haunted by his past choices and lost opportunities.
40. Gheisar (1969)
“Gheisar” is a 1969 old Persian movie directed and written by Masoud Kimiaei. It explores themes of revenge and violence in Iranian cinema. After Fati is insulted and commits suicide, his brother Farman seeks revenge on the Abmangol brothers. Gheisar, Farman’s younger brother, returns and joins the pursuit of vengeance. He successfully kills the brothers but faces consequences when he encounters the police.
41. The White Meadows (2009)
“The White Meadows” is a 2009 Persian movie by Mohammad Rasoulof. It follows a man named Rahmat who collects people’s tears in a glass. The film uses striking visuals and metaphors to criticize the exploitation of superstition by political power.
42. Leila (1997)
“Leila” is a Persian movie directed by Dariush Mehrjui. Leila and Reza are married but struggle with infertility. Leila’s mother pressures her to allow Reza to marry another woman to have a child. Leila agrees but later regrets it and refuses to return to Reza’s life. Eventually, Reza divorces his second wife and visits Leila with their daughter.
43. The Wind Will Carry Us (1999)
“The Wind Will Carry Us” is a Persian movie directed and produced by Abbas Kiarostami. A group of filmmakers travels to Kurdish villages to document local mourning ceremonies. Mistaken for treasure hunters, they await the death of an elderly woman while observing the village’s rituals. The film explores themes of waiting and anticipation.
44. Bab’Aziz: The Prince Who Contemplated His Soul (2005)
In Nasser Khamer’s “Bab’Aziz: The Prince Who Contemplated His Soul” an elderly dervish named Baba Aziz and his granddaughter, Ishtar, traverse the desert in search of a mysterious gathering of dervishes. Along their path, they encounter diverse characters and share profound conversations, driven by their spiritual quest. This captivating film weaves a tale of mysticism and enlightenment.
45. Muhammad: The Messenger of God (2015)
Majid Majidi’s “Muhammad: The Messenger of God” is a remarkable Iranian historical film released in 2015. The story revolves around the childhood of Prophet Muhammad in the 6th century AD, starting from the 10th year of his mission amidst the Muslim community’s economic hardships. The film also depicts the pivotal events such as the year of the elephant, the siege of Muslims, and the Prophet’s first trip to Syria. It is a profound portrayal of faith and divine destiny.
46. Sheeple (2018)
In Houman Seyedi’s new Persian movie “Sheeple,” set in a poverty-stricken settlement near Alborz and Ghazal Hesar prison, we witness the challenges faced by a family amidst societal violence, drug-related issues, and financial hardship. As their world crumbles, these circumstances lead to crimes that shape their lives.
47. The Traveller (1974)
In Abbas Kiarostami’s old Persian movie “The Traveller,” young football enthusiast Qasim Julai embarks on a daring journey from Malayer to Tehran to watch his favorite team play. Facing numerous obstacles, including stealing money and experiencing a disheartening dream, Qasim’s quest ends in disappointment as he arrives at the stadium only to find the match has ended and the stands are empty.
48. Crimson Gold (2003)
Directed by Jafar Panahi and written by Abbas Kiarostami, “Crimson Gold” is a remarkable Persian movie from 2003. Despite its artistic brilliance, this thought-provoking masterpiece was withheld from Iranian cinemas due to its daring exploration of societal darkness. Panahi’s direction and Kiarostami’s writing combine to illuminate the hidden complexities of Iranian society, offering a poignant and compelling portrayal of the human condition.
49. The Father (1996)
In Majid Majidi’s acclaimed Persian movie “Father,” set in 1996, the story unfolds after the protagonist Mehrullah’s father’s passing. Working away from home to support his family, Mehrullah returns to find his mother remarried to a compassionate gendarme. Filled with anger and resentment, Mehrullah confronts his mother, leading to a series of events involving stolen guns and strained relationships. Majidi skillfully captures the complexities of love, loss, and the unbreakable ties that bind families together in this compelling and award-winning film.
50. Ten (2002)
Within Abbas Kiarostami’s prolific repertoire of Persian movies released in 2002, “Ten” stands as a remarkable exploration of contemporary society. This cinematic masterpiece takes us on a captivating journey as we witness a woman, confined within the confines of a car, engage in ten distinct conversations with five individuals. Through these poignant encounters, “Ten” offers a poignant and thought-provoking glimpse into the multifaceted lives of Iranian women.
We presented a compelling list of the top Persian movies to watch including old Persian movies, new Persian movies, comedy Persian movies, etc. that will transport you into a world of emotions, revelations, and thought-provoking narratives. So, buckle up, grab some popcorn, and embark on a cinematic adventure that promises to leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind.
Embark on a Cinematic Journey: Explore Must-Watch Persian Movies with a Customized Tour
Are you a movie enthusiast seeking to delve into the rich and diverse world of Iranian cinema and Persian language movies? If you aspire to experience the best of Iranian movies firsthand, we recommend embarking on a customized and tailored tour of Iran. With a vast repertoire of critically acclaimed movies, Iran has become a prominent player in the global film industry. By immersing yourself in the country’s vibrant culture and visiting the locations where these remarkable films were shot, you can truly appreciate the depth and beauty of Iranian cinema.
We understand that each traveler has unique preferences when it comes to their travel experience. That’s why we prioritize designing personalized tours that align with your interests. Whether you are a fan of Iranian New Wave cinema, interested in exploring the works of renowned directors, or simply want to discover hidden gems in Iranian cinema, we can tailor your itinerary accordingly. Our expert team will work closely with you to create a customized plan that combines visits to iconic film locations, immersive cultural experiences, and the exploration of Iran’s breathtaking landscapes.
