The feature film ‘The Seed of the Sacred Fig’ by Mohammad Rasoulof will represent Germany at the 97th Academy Awards® for Best International Feature Film. This decision was made by an independent jury of experts appointed by German Films from the 13 films submitted for consideration.
The jury statement reads, “‘The Seed of the Sacred Fig’ is a psychological portrait of Iran’s theocracy which is built on violence and paranoia. Mohammad Rasoulof subtly tells of the cracks within a family that are representative of those within Iranian society itself. A masterfully directed and movingly acted film that finds scenes that stay with you. The two rebellious daughters symbolize the courageous women of Iran and their self-sacrificing struggle against the patriarchs of their families and their state. It is an outstanding work by one of the great directors of world cinema and someone who has found refuge in Germany from state despotism in Iran. We are very happy to know that Rasoulof is safe in our country. And we are delighted that he will be representing Germany at the Oscars® in 2025.”
Director Mohammad Rasoulof and the producers Mani Tilgner, Rozita Hendijanian and Amin Sadraei comment: “We are deeply honoured that “The Seed of the Sacred Fig; has been selected as the German entry for the Oscars®. This film, which tells the story of oppression, but also of hope and resistance, is the result of a unique collaboration between people with very different realities of life and migration histories. It shows how powerful intercultural exchange can exist in a free and open society. We are delighted to be part of the international competition for the Oscars®.”
Filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof fled Iran, where the film was made, after receiving an eight-year prison sentence, including whipping, as his art is perceived to represent crimes against the country’s security. He currently resides in Germany.
‘The Seed of the Sacred Fig’ received the Jury Special Prize and the FIPRESCI award at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. It has also been selected as a European Academy Feature film contender.
The film is scheduled to make it’s Canadian debut at the Toronto International Film Festival on Thursday, 5 September.
Produced by Run Way Pictures in co-production with Parallel45, ARTE France Cinéma and with the participation of ARTE France and in co-operation with Films Boutique. The film was supported by L’ Aide Aux Cinémas Du Monde, Centre National Du Cinéma Et De L’ image Animée, Institut Français and MOIN Filmförderung Hamburg Schleswig-Holstein.
The German distributor Alamode will release the film in German cinemas on December 26, 2024. Films Boutique is handling international sales. In North America, NEON will release the film nationwide in US cinemas on November 27, 2024.
International Feature Film Oscar® Key Dates:
Submission Deadline: October 2, 2024
Voting Begins: December 9, 2024
Voting ends Friday, December 13, 2024
Oscars Shortlists Announced, December 17, 2024
