The Seed of the Sacred Fig
The Seed of the Sacred Fig

The Seed of the Sacred Fig

2024Movie167 minFrench

Investigating judge Iman grapples with paranoia amid political unrest in Tehran. When his gun vanishes, he suspects his wife and daughters, imposing draconian measures that strain family ties as societal rules crumble.

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IMDb7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes93%
Metacritic89/100
Google Users85%
Director: Mohammad RasoulofGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

In Tehran, a prominent judge, Abbas, finds his authority challenged by growing public unrest and a series of mysterious deaths. As paranoia escalates within his family, his wife, Najmeh, and daughters, Shirin and Mona, become increasingly suspicious of his behavior and secrets. The film delves into the psychological toll of repression and the erosion of trust as events spiral towards an inevitable, tragic confrontation.

Critical Reception

Mohammad Rasoulof's "The Seed of the Sacred Fig" has garnered significant critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and timely themes. Reviewers have lauded its courage in addressing complex political and social issues within Iran, praising its intense atmosphere and strong performances. It has been described as a deeply unsettling and masterful portrayal of fear, paranoia, and the consequences of authoritarianism.

What Reviewers Say

  • A gripping and courageous examination of repression and its psychological impact.
  • Praised for its masterful direction and compelling, suspenseful narrative.
  • Highlights strong performances, particularly from the lead actors, in conveying a palpable sense of dread.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally praise the film's thought-provoking narrative and intense atmosphere, with many commending its relevance to current socio-political issues. Some viewers found the film's subject matter heavy, but most appreciated its artistic merit and powerful message.

Awards & Accolades

Won the Special Jury Prize (Un Certain Regard) at the Cannes Film Festival 2024.

Fun Fact

Director Mohammad Rasoulof was reportedly barred from leaving Iran to attend the Cannes Film Festival premiere of his film, despite winning an award.

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TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

When “Iman” (Missagh Zareh) gets a promotion at work, he hopes it will lead to his family of wife “Najmeh” (Sohelia Golestani) and daughters “Sana” (Setareh Maleki) and “Rezvan” (Mahsa Rostami) being relocated to better accommodation so tha...