TEHRAN- Iranian actor Amir Jadidi, who is best known internationally for his lead performance in Asghar Farhadi’s 2021 Cannes Grand Prix winner “A Hero,” will play Iranian celebrity tennis player Mansour Bahrami in a biographical film directed by French filmmaker and producer Romuald Boulanger.

France TV Distribution has acquired world sales rights for Romuald Boulanger’s upcoming film “Mansour,” capturing the journey of Bahrami from Iran to France and fame on the international circuit, Borna reported.

Bahrami, 68, is a popular figure on the international tennis tournament circuit for his entertaining playing style. Born in Iran, he taught himself to play tennis. Since 1981, he has been living in France. 

The film will capture how through sheer determination and quick wit, Bahrami navigated the complexities of life as an immigrant, while forming lasting bonds with tennis icons who recognized his talent, to fulfill his childhood dream of playing at Roland Garros. 

“Many people have told me over the years that my story is made for the screen but in fact, it’s very humbling to think there will be a feature film of my life,” said Bahrami.

“Amir Jadidi is also an exceptional actor. He really does transform. The fact he is a semi-pro tennis player is one of those great strokes of luck. If my story can inspire people and make them smile, then I will be a very happy man.”

Boulanger described Bahrami as a “true hero” whose “resilience and passion have inspired countless individuals”. “I am immensely honored to bring his extraordinary journey to the big screen,” he said.

France TV Distribution team will launch the project in Cannes. “We have been moved by this story that illustrates the strength and determination of a man willing to do whatever it takes to fulfill his dearest dream,” said VP International Cinema Sales Alexandre René and SVP International Sales Julia Schulte.

Jadidi, 39, is an actor and tennis player. Before venturing into the world of art, he was a professional tennis player. He coached actor and filmmaker Houman Seyyedi, which is why Seyyedi invited him to act in the movie “Africa”. This opportunity paved the way for Jadidi’s success in cinema and significant roles in his career.

Jadidi debuted as an actor in 2011 with “Africa”. In 2014, he starred in Seyyedi’s next film “Thirteen” as well as “End of the Service,” for which he earned an Honorary Diploma for Best Actor in a Leading Role at the 32nd Fajr International Film Festival and received praise from critics for his performances.
 
He is well known in Iran for his starring roles in “Crazy Rook” (2015), “A Dragon Arrives!” (2016), “The Lost Strait” (2018), “Cold Sweat” (2018), and “Day Zero” (2020), whereas he is best known internationally for his role as Rahim in “A Hero” (2021), which won the Grand Prix at the 74th Cannes Film Festival.

Jadidi won the Crystal Simorgh for Best Actor for his performances in “Cold Sweat” and “The Lost Strait”.  In 2021, he received his first Hafez Award and a Palm Springs International Film Festival award for his performance in “A Hero”.

In June 2022, he was invited to be a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

SS/SAB