Mohammad Rasoulof, born on November 16, 1972, in Shiraz, Iran, is an influential Iranian filmmaker known for his thought-provoking and politically charged cinema. Over the years, Rasoulof has become one of the most important and outspoken figures in contemporary Iranian filmmaking, using his work as a platform to critique the social, political, and cultural climate of his homeland. Despite facing constant threats and persecution from the Iranian government, Rasoulof has earned international acclaim for his films, which reflect his unwavering commitment to storytelling, justice, and freedom of expression.
Key Information
| Field | Information |
| Full Name | Mohammad Rasoulof |
| Date of Birth | November 16, 1972 |
| Age | 52 (as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Shiraz, Iran |
| Nationality | Iranian (currently in exile) |
| Ethnicity | Iranian (Persian) |
| Religion | Islam (likely Shia Muslim, as most Iranians are) |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
| Education | Sociology (Shiraz University), Film Editing (Sooreh University, Tehran) |
| High School | Not publicly disclosed |
| Residence | Germany (after being granted asylum in 2024) |
| Spouse | Rozita (name and details not widely publicized) |
| Children | Baran Rasoulof (daughter) |
| Languages Spoken | Persian (Farsi), English |
| Profession | Filmmaker, Director, Screenwriter, Producer |
| Genres | Drama, Social Realism, Political Cinema |
| Notable Works | The Twilight (2002), Iron Island (2005), Goodbye (2011), Manuscripts Don’t Burn (2013), A Man of Integrity (2017), There Is No Evil (2020) |
| Awards | Golden Bear (2020), Time 100 Most Influential People (2025) |
| Social Media | Low public profile; avoids personal social media |
| Film Festival Appearances | Cannes Film Festival, Berlin Film Festival, Venice Film Festival |
| Artistic Influences | Iranian Cinema, Social Realism, Neorealism, European Cinema, Classical Filmmakers |
| Political Beliefs | Advocate for freedom of expression, critic of government censorship and political oppression |
| Political Persecution | Targeted by the Iranian government for his films, including arrest and exile due to activism and filmmaking |
| Professional Affiliations | Filmmakers’ Rights Advocacy Networks, International Film Community |
Early Life and Education
Rasoulof’s journey into filmmaking began in Shiraz, a city in southern Iran. He initially studied sociology at Shiraz University but later decided to pursue film editing at Sooreh University in Tehran. His background in sociology and film editing shaped his perspective on cinema as a powerful medium for social commentary. Rasoulof’s early experiences studying the intricacies of society and visual storytelling would form the foundation of his later work, characterized by its deep engagement with human rights and political freedom.
Breakthrough in Filmmaking
Mohammad Rasoulof career in cinema began in the early 2000s when he directed several short films, eventually making his feature debut with The Twilight (2002). The film received praise for its subtle and thought-provoking portrayal of personal dilemmas within Iranian society. However, it was his second feature film, Iron Island (2005), that truly established him as a leading voice in Iranian cinema. The film, which explores themes of social unrest and the consequences of political decisions, was well-received both in Iran and internationally.
Political Themes and Censorship
As his career progressed, Rasoulof’s work became increasingly bold in addressing the harsh realities of life under the Iranian regime. In his 2011 film Goodbye, Rasoulof focused on the experiences of an Iranian woman trying to leave the country, drawing attention to the oppressive atmosphere in Iran that stifled personal freedoms. This film, like many of his others, was met with resistance from the Iranian government, which has long been hostile toward filmmakers who critique the political status quo.
In 2013, Rasoulof’s film Manuscripts Don’t Burn which tells the story of two government agents tasked with destroying a writer’s manuscripts further cemented his reputation as a filmmaker willing to challenge the authorities. The film was banned in Iran upon release, and Rasoulof faced mounting pressure from the government, including a temporary ban on his filmmaking activities.
Awards and Recognition
Despite the intense scrutiny and censorship he faced at home, Rasoulof’s work gained recognition on the international stage. In 2020, his film There Is No Evil won the prestigious Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival, a significant achievement for an Iranian director whose films often dealt with the political repression in his country. The film, which explores the moral dilemmas of conscription and the death penalty, resonated with audiences worldwide, earning Rasoulof critical acclaim and reaffirming his status as one of the leading voices in global cinema.
Exile and Continued Work
Rasoulof’s outspoken political views and the controversial nature of his work ultimately led to his exile from Iran. In 2024, after facing threats of imprisonment and persecution, he was granted asylum in Germany, where he continued his creative output in exile. His 2024 film The Seed of the Sacred Fig was a poignant exploration of Iran’s ongoing political unrest, particularly the government’s violent crackdown on the Women’s, Life Freedom movement.
His continued work, made under the constant threat of censorship, has solidified Rasoulof’s reputation as one of the most important contemporary Iranian filmmakers. Through his films, he highlights the struggles of ordinary people living under oppressive regimes and demonstrates how art can be a tool for resistance.
Legacy and Influence
Despite being banned from filmmaking in Iran, Mohammad Rasoulof’s influence on Iranian cinema and global filmmaking remains profound. His work not only challenges the political regime in his home country but also engages with universal themes of human rights, justice, and freedom. He has become a symbol of artistic resistance, using the power of cinema to speak truth to power and advocate for the oppressed.
In addition to his filmic accomplishments, Rasoulof’s story serves as a reminder of the cost that many filmmakers pay for their art, especially in oppressive political environments. His continued presence in international film festivals and critical discourse ensures that his voice will remain heard, both within Iran and globally.
Interesting Facts About Mohammad Rasoulof
- Exile and Asylum: After facing severe restrictions and threats from the Iranian government due to his politically charged films, Rasoulof was forced into exile. He now resides in Germany, where he continues to create films addressing social and political issues in Iran.
- Golden Bear Winner: In 2020, Rasoulof won the Golden Bear for There Is No Evil at the Berlin International Film Festival. The film, which explores the moral complexities surrounding Iran’s use of the death penalty, was a critical success and further established his international reputation.
- Film Themes: Rasoulof’s films often center on the issues of state oppression, human rights, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals living under authoritarian regimes. His works are marked by their bold critique of Iran’s political system.
- Political Persecution: Rasoulof has been repeatedly targeted by the Iranian government for his outspoken political views. His film Manuscripts Don’t Burn was banned, and in 2020, he was sentenced to prison for “propaganda against the state.”
- International Recognition: Despite censorship in Iran, Rasoulof’s films have garnered international acclaim. His work is often shown at prestigious film festivals, and he has won numerous awards for his contributions to world cinema.
- Cinematic Style: Rasoulof’s films are known for their realism, slow pacing, and powerful character-driven narratives. He often uses subtle storytelling to provoke deep thought about moral and social issues.
- Advocate for Artistic Freedom: Rasoulof continues to use his platform to advocate for freedom of expression and for the rights of filmmakers and artists in repressive regimes.
- Human Rights Advocate: Beyond filmmaking, Rasoulof is a staunch advocate for human rights. His films shed light on the struggles faced by ordinary people under oppressive regimes, aiming to ignite international conversations about these issues.
- Inspiration to Young Filmmakers: Rasoulof’s ability to create powerful narratives under extreme circumstances has made him a role model for many young filmmakers in Iran and around the world. His story demonstrates the resilience and determination necessary to succeed in the face of adversity.
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