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Iran Cracks Down on Filmmakers Over Romantic Drama ‘My Favourite Cake’

Despite the risks involved, "My Favourite Cake" is scheduled to premiere in France soon

The romantic drama “My Favourite Cake” has sparked significant backlash from Iranian authorities, leading to a crackdown on its filmmakers. The film, which tells the story of an elderly couple seeking solace from their loneliness, has received acclaim on the international festival circuit and is set for screenings in multiple countries.

However, its Tehran-based directors, Moghadam and Sanaeeha, are facing legal challenges and pressure to halt its international release due to its sensitive content that challenges Iran’s stringent censorship laws.

The Iranian government has reacted strongly, accusing the filmmakers of “propaganda against the regime,” “promoting libertinism and prostitution,” and violating Islamic law. Following a raid by the Revolutionary Guards in 2023, the filmmakers have been subjected to regular police questioning, with their passports confiscated. They report ongoing intimidation from authorities whenever the film is showcased internationally.

“My Favourite Cake” addresses taboo subjects within Iranian society, including relationships between unmarried individuals and the portrayal of life before the 1979 Islamic Revolution. 

The film’s depiction of everyday life—such as a woman not wearing a hijab in private—contrasts sharply with state narratives that enforce strict social norms.

Moghadam emphasized that their goal was to reflect the reality of life in Iran, including aspects often considered forbidden.

Filming of ‘My Favourite Cake’ began shortly before the “Woman, Life, Freedom” protests erupted in 2022 after the death of Mahsa Amini, which led to widespread civil unrest against the government. The filmmakers paused production during these protests but ultimately decided to continue, believing their film’s themes resonated with the ongoing struggle for freedom in Iran.

Despite the risks involved, “My Favourite Cake” is scheduled to premiere in France soon, with plans for additional releases in countries like Brazil and Greece. However, access within Iran remains limited to illegal downloads due to government censorship.

The filmmakers are determined to maintain their presence in international cinema despite facing severe repercussions from their own government.

 

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