Shayda, the audience winner at the Sundance Film Festival, directed by Noora Niasari, is set to conclude the Locarno International Film Festival this year. The film, executive produced by Cate Blanchett, features Zar Amir Ebrahimi, known for her role in Holy Spider. It will make its European premiere on Saturday, August 12th at the festival’s closing night. In addition to Shayda, Locarno will surprise the audience with another film selected by festival president Marco Solari, which delves into the history of cinema.
Shayda is a powerful debut from Niasari, drawing inspiration from her own life. The film narrates the inspiring journey of an Iranian woman who seeks freedom after immigrating to Australia. She finds solace in a women’s shelter as she navigates her new environment. Through this intimate portrayal, Niasari explores themes of resilience, identity, and the human spirit.
Blanchett’s involvement in Shayda as an executive producer is through her production company, Dirty Films, which she runs alongside Andrew Upton and Coco Francini. Both Blanchett and Ebrahimi, along with Niasari, will attend the Locarno International Film Festival to showcase their remarkable collaboration. This will provide an opportunity for audiences to engage with the creators and gain insight into the film’s creation.
As part of her involvement in the festival, Blanchett will also moderate a conversation between Niasari and Ebrahimi at the GranRex Cinema in Locarno. The discussion will revolve around the theme of “Iranian women and Iranian cinema,” shedding light on the unique experiences and perspectives of Iranian women both in the film industry and society at large.
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The 76th edition of the Locarno International Film Festival is scheduled to run from August 2nd to August 12th, 2023. It is known for its focus on independent and innovative cinema, attracting filmmakers and cinephiles from around the world. The festival provides a platform for emerging talents, showcasing their work alongside established filmmakers. With its renowned reputation, Locarno serves as an important hub for artistic expression and cultural exchange.
The inclusion of Shayda as the closing film at this year’s festival highlights its significance and recognition within the international film community. Niasari’s personal story resonates with audiences by addressing universal themes of resilience, courage, and the pursuit of freedom. The collaboration between Niasari, Blanchett, and Ebrahimi brings together diverse perspectives and experiences, resulting in an authentic and compelling cinematic experience.
Shayda’s European premiere at the Locarno International Film Festival offers an opportunity for a wider audience to discover and appreciate this remarkable film. Its selection as the closing film is a testament to its emotional impact and the skillful storytelling of Niasari. By exploring the experiences of Iranian women through the lens of cinema, Shayda contributes to the ongoing dialogue surrounding representation and diversity in the film industry.
The Locarno International Film Festival remains committed to showcasing innovative and thought-provoking films that push boundaries and challenge societal norms. Through its diverse lineup of films, the festival continues to be a platform for filmmakers to share their unique perspectives and narratives with a global audience. As audiences eagerly anticipate the closing night and the European premiere of Shayda, the festival reaffirms its commitment to celebrating the art of cinema and fostering cultural exchange.
