Iranian director Jafar Panahi speaks out after winning top prize at Cannes film festival

Iran's great director Jafar Panahi won the Palme d'Or award at Cannes in 2025 for his new film, It Was Just an Accident. It is a strong comeback to the international scene for the director, who was banned from traveling for years and was already behind bars in Iran.

Jafar Panahi’s attendance at Cannes was notable in itself. It was the first time in 15 years he had appeared at an international film festival. The moment was made even more significant by the standing ovation he received before his film was even screened.

Jafar Panahi’s Speech and the Post That Went Viral

Jafar Panahi's acceptance speech was short and emotive. Speaking to the audience, he encouraged Iranians to "lay aside" their differences and unite for freedom of their country. He also denounced the Iranian government's constraints and declared,

"No one has the right to tell us what to wear, what to do, or what not to do."

That part of the speech quickly went viral internationally. Footage of the session was posted across social media and began trending within hours. People all across the world shared the clips, admiring Jafar Panahi for boldly standing up and speaking the truth.

The speech was widely seen as not just a celebration of victory, but as a general statement against censorship and control in Iran. Several users noted that it was strange to hear such open criticism on an international stage from someone who had himself experienced the consequences of speaking out.

It Was Just an Accident is a revenge thriller. It is about five Iranians who believe they have discovered the person who tortured them during their time in prison. The film addresses trauma, justice, and accountability.

According to reports, parts of the story draw inspiration from Jafar Panahi’s own time in prison. The film was shot in secret and completed under challenging conditions.

The film has been described by critics as bold, darkly funny, and emotionally deep. It has been praised for its storytelling and the way it tackles serious issues without being preachy or one-sided.

This win makes Panahi the second Iranian director to ever win the Palme d'Or, after Abbas Kiarostami. It's being hailed as a milestone in the history of Iranian cinema and as an international recognition for directors working under censorship domestically.

Trending

The film will open in French theaters in September 2025. It should go on to find wider audiences worldwide and continue the conversation it has already started.

Panahi’s win and words have left a lasting impression not only on the festival but on viewers around the world.

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