Art
10 Questions to Yadolah Dodge: Artistic Director of the Iranian Film Festival Zurich
Insights on Curating the 10th Anniversary Edition
As the Iranian Film Festival Zurich (IFFZ) marks its 10th anniversary from September 11 to 19, 2024, we spoke with Yadolah Dodge, the festival’s artistic director, to discuss the importance of this milestone and his plans for the event. This year’s festival highlights include seven classic films, contributions from emerging women filmmakers, and an all-female jury evaluating 12 films, including world premieres. The competition features a diverse array of genres and stories, from the drama of Parvin and Cold Tea to the mysterious narrative of Cause of Death: Unknown. Each film offers a unique perspective on Iranian life and storytelling, reflecting the vibrancy and depth of contemporary Iranian cinema.
Shahid
Additionally, Iranian-American writer-director Maryam Keshavarz will be honored with the prestigious Honorary Golden Cyrus Cylinder for her courage and advocacy. Another key event will be the screening of Hélène Rastegar’s documentary film Shâd Bâsh, followed by a panel discussion. The film, rooted in Rastegar’s dual Iranian culture, explores themes of personal history, memory, and the passage of time through a daughter’s journey to reconnect with her father’s homeland. Rastegar, known for her work intertwining fiction and documentary, brings forth stories where female characters navigate internal struggles for survival and a place in the world.
1. The IFFZ is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. What are the key milestones or achievements that you are most proud of?
Reaching this 10-year mark is a significant achievement. I am particularly proud of our resilience through challenging times, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic and the tragic events surrounding Jina Mahsa Amini. Our ability to adapt, such as offering online screenings and addressing important social issues, underscores our commitment to Iranian cinema and cultural dialogue.
2. This year’s festival is dedicated to Dariush Mehrjui and his family. How does Mehrjui’s work influence the festival’s programming and mission?
Dariush Mehrjui
Dariush Mehrjui’s influence on the Iranian New Wave is profound. His innovative storytelling and cultural insights serve as a cornerstone for our programming. Dedicating this edition to him honors his impact and aligns with our mission to highlight significant figures in Iranian cinema and celebrate their contributions.
3. The festival will feature seven classic Iranian films this year. How did you decide on these particular films?
The selection of these classics involved choosing films that have left an indelible mark on Iranian and world cinema. Films like The Brick and the Mirror (1965) and The Cow (1969) are seminal works that reflect the evolution of Iranian film. We aimed to present a range of styles and themes, offering a comprehensive view of Iranian cinema’s rich history.
4. How does the festival balance showcasing classic Iranian films with promoting contemporary works by young filmmakers?
We balance our program by presenting both classic and contemporary works. The classics provide historical context, while contemporary films offer insights into current trends and issues. This combination enriches the audience’s understanding of Iranian culture and highlights the ongoing contributions of new filmmakers.
5. This year’s jury is composed entirely of women. What was the rationale behind this decision, and what do you hope it will bring to the festival?
An all-women jury emphasizes the crucial role of women in cinema and aligns with our commitment to gender equality. Our jury members bring diverse perspectives and expertise. Their backgrounds and experiences will provide a nuanced evaluation of the films, reflecting the festival’s dedication to inclusivity and highlighting women’s contributions to the film industry.
6. Can you tell us more about the new wave of young women filmmakers from Iran, France, and the USA? What themes or issues are they exploring?
Young women filmmakers from Iran, France, and the USA are exploring themes including gender identity, political challenges, and personal struggles. Their films often blend personal experiences with broader societal issues, offering fresh perspectives on life in Iran and the diaspora. Their voices are essential for understanding the evolving landscape of Iranian cinema.
7. How has the festival evolved over the years, particularly in terms of its audience and international reach?
The festival has grown from a local event to a significant cultural platform with an international reach. Our expansion includes attracting a diverse audience from across Switzerland and beyond. Adaptations during the pandemic, such as online screenings, helped us connect with a broader audience and increase our global presence.
8. What are the biggest challenges you face as the artistic director of the festival, and how do you address them?
Balancing artistic vision with logistical and financial constraints is a major challenge. We address this through careful planning and collaboration with partners, ensuring that we stay true to our mission while managing practical considerations.
9. How does the festival contribute to bridging cultural gaps between Iranians, Swiss, and other nationalities in Switzerland?
By showcasing Iranian films and fostering cultural exchange, the festival acts as a bridge between different communities. It allows audiences to explore Iranian culture and themes through cinema, promoting understanding and dialogue among diverse groups in Switzerland.
10. The festival features opening and closing films this year. Can you share your thoughts on why The Persian Version and Boomerang were chosen?
The Persian Version
We chose The Persian Version for its vibrant portrayal of cultural duality and family dynamics. The film’s bright color palette, comedic elements, and lively dance numbers set an engaging tone for the festival, making it a perfect introduction to the diverse and rich narratives we aim to showcase. The film follows Iranian-American Leila as she navigates the challenges of balancing her contrasting cultures while dealing with family reunions in New York. Through heartfelt storytelling, The Persian Version explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of family life—universal experiences that resonate deeply with audiences and align perfectly with the festival’s mission.
For the closing film, we selected Boomerang because of its profound exploration of modern Tehran’s sociological landscape. The film captures the unraveling of a marriage and the budding of a new romance, set against the backdrop of the city’s political and social realities. Shahab Fotouhi’s debut feature film offers a nuanced portrayal of a disillusioned generation while introducing a fresh perspective on Tehran’s evolving cultural dynamics. Boomerang provides a compelling conclusion to the festival, leaving the audience with thought-provoking insights into contemporary Iranian life.
Join us from September 11 to 19, 2024, for this milestone edition of the Iranian Film Festival Zurich and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Iranian cinema, guided by Yadolah Dodge’s visionary direction.
Yadolah Dodge was born in Abadan, Iran, and is a Swiss citizen. Along with a full-time position as Professor and Chair of Statistics at the University of Neuchâtel, Switzerland, he made three long documentaries: Turicum: Das ist Zurich (2014), Dear Son (2018) and So ein Theater (2019). 
