TEHRAN-The Iranian series “Actor” will be released on the Arte TV channel and platform on May 9 for European viewers.

The French-German cultural television network Arte has acquired the broadcasting rights for the series, written and directed by Nima Javidi, and dubbed it into French and German, ISNA reported.

The series is to premiere during prime viewing hours on Thursday to attract maximum viewers with its diverse and high-quality content.

According to Arte, this move aligns with its reputation for showcasing diverse, high-quality programming to the channel’s European audience. Being the first Iranian series broadcast internationally, it is a black comedy of delightful originality. 

Starring Navid Mohammadzadeh, Ahmad Mehranfar, Hasti Mahdavifar, and Hanieh Tavassoli, the series delves into the lives of theater actors navigating intricate adventures after accepting a unique offer.

The other cast members include Hooman Barghnavard, Gelareh Abbasi, Arash Falahatpisheh, Roya Javidnia, Mehraveh Sharifinia, and Farideh Sepahmansour.

Each episode of “Actor” presents a distinct story and atmosphere, as the protagonists, portrayed by Mohammadzadeh and Mehranfar, immerse themselves in various roles, from an addict aiding a concerned father to bandits orchestrating a surprising proposal.

The series’ appeal lies in its versatile makeup and character designs, compelling viewers to follow the unfolding narrative.

“Actor” features an extraordinary performance from Mohammadzadeh, who pulls off a tragicomic tour de force that impresses with its scope. Each episode is characterized by its own breathtaking performance, and each performance has its own share of misadventures based on fabulous unpredictability. Gripping from the very opening scene, the series will serve as a wake-up call for Iranian cinema.

For writing the script, Javidi was inspired by the renowned English playwright and poet William Shakespeare and learned from him how to write characters that are multi-dimensional and complicated.

“Shakespeare said that all the world’s a stage,” Javidi said. “And that all men and women are merely players, assuming different roles depending on their situations and what they want to achieve. I thought it was fascinating to put performers in realistic roles and have them overcome obstacles, solve problems, and save themselves and others from difficulties using their acting abilities.”

Following its international success, including winning the grand prize at France’s Series Mania Festival and the best screenplay award at the Seoul International Drama Awards, “Actor” is to make its European debut on Arte TV.

Mohammadzadeh’s accolades, such as the Best Actor Award in the Horizons competition category at the 74th International Film Festival of Venice, further underscore the series' acclaim.

SS/SAB