

There Is No Evil
Set against the backdrop of Iran's strict and oppressive legal system, this anthology film tells the stories of four men who each face a moral crisis when having to deal with death penalties.
Insights
Plot Summary
The film is an anthology that tells four distinct stories, each exploring the moral complexities and personal sacrifices faced by men who work in Iran's penal system and are forced to carry out the death penalty. It delves into their private lives, relationships, and the internal conflicts that arise from their involvement in state-sanctioned executions, questioning the nature of responsibility and freedom under a totalitarian regime. Each segment presents a different facet of how these individuals navigate their conscience and the societal pressures they endure.
Critical Reception
There Is No Evil received widespread critical acclaim, particularly for its bold subject matter and Rasoulof's unflinching examination of capital punishment in Iran. Critics lauded its powerful storytelling, nuanced performances, and its profound ethical questions. The film was recognized for its courage in addressing sensitive political and social issues within the confines of Iranian cinema.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its courageous and thought-provoking exploration of the death penalty.
- Lauded for its masterful storytelling and powerful performances.
- Recognized for its profound ethical inquiries into responsibility and freedom.
Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's deep emotional impact and its success in prompting reflection on complex moral dilemmas. Viewers appreciated its artistic merit and its ability to convey a powerful message about the human cost of state-sanctioned violence, with many finding it a deeply moving and important cinematic experience.
Awards & Accolades
Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival (2020).
Fun Fact
Director Mohammad Rasoulof was officially banned from filmmaking in Iran and was unable to attend the Berlin Film Festival to accept the Golden Bear in person, receiving the award remotely.
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