Five Iran films will represent the country at the 16th International Youth Film Festival Light of the World, strengthening Iran’s presence in international youth cinema. The event will take place from September 11 to 16 in Yaroslavl, Russia, where filmmakers from many countries will showcase productions focused on younger audiences and emerging talent.
The Iranian lineup features Baytora by Faraj Salehi, Dandelions Girl by Azadeh Masihzadeh, The Path We Have Taken by Narges Fazli, Faraway Land by Abbas Ghadir Mohseni, and Pirezan and Shahderakht by Robabe Hashemi. Together, these films highlight the diversity of Iran’s independent filmmaking community while presenting stories with social, cultural, and humanitarian themes.
Baytora follows a young student living in Gaza during a temporary ceasefire. The child receives a school assignment to build a model of a dream home using available materials. Consequently, the short film explores hope, resilience, and childhood imagination despite difficult living conditions.
Dandelions Girl tells the story of a determined young football player who refuses to abandon her dream. After a serious incident during a match, people attempt to hide the truth. However, one character eventually chooses honesty over family influence, reinforcing themes of justice, courage, and perseverance.
The Path We Have Taken presents an animated story about a mother with a disability who faces daily challenges while collecting her daughter from school. As the journey unfolds, the film highlights accessibility, family responsibility, and determination through a simple yet emotional narrative.
Although fewer story details have emerged about Faraway Land and Pirezan and Shahderakht, their selection reflects continued international interest in Iranian productions. Furthermore, the inclusion of five entries demonstrates the country’s consistent participation in global cultural events.
The Light of the World International Youth Film Festival has operated since 2011 as a year-round educational and cultural initiative. Organizers promote moral values, artistic creativity, and cultural dialogue through films created for children and young audiences. In addition, the festival encourages collaboration between experienced filmmakers and emerging directors from different countries.
The Russian Ministry of Culture supports the festival, which has grown into one of Russia’s largest youth film competitions. Besides film screenings, participants engage in discussions, educational activities, and creative exchanges that encourage future international cooperation.
Festival organizers also emphasize that recognition extends beyond awards. Instead, educators continue using selected films throughout the year to inspire discussions about values, responsibility, and social development among young viewers.
Iran’s participation carries broader significance because international festivals continue providing opportunities for filmmakers to reach wider audiences. Moreover, successful screenings often create future partnerships, distribution opportunities, and cultural exchanges between production communities.
As preparations continue for September, filmmakers will introduce their work to international juries and audiences. Their participation will also strengthen cultural dialogue while showcasing the creativity and storytelling abilities of Iran’s emerging film industry.