TEHRAN-The Iranian short film “Cocoon” written and directed by Saeid Bojnourdi has won an award at the 15th Annual World Music and Independent Film Festival in Virginia, the U.S.

The festival, which was held in early May, presented the award for Best Actor in the SouthWestern Film category to Milad Shajareh for his performance in “Cocoon,” Mehr reported on Friday.

“Cocoon” is the story of a child called Mousa who suffered a nervous shock during the aerial bombardments of the war. He gradually weaves a mental cocoon for himself and avoids others. This loneliness has turned him into a painter, but the void of love in his life is evident. However, the entrance of love changes his life path.

Mahmoud Koneshlou, Sadaf Baradaran, Sara Haqgou, Sadaf Haqgou, Morteza Mousavi and Zahra Khozouee comprise the rest of the cast.

Shajareh is known for the feature film “48FM” (2020), the series “Queen of Beggars” (2021), and the short film “The Story of a Passenger Who Was Lost in His Last Journey” (2022).

Established in 2010, the unique and prestigious World Music & Independent Film Festival (WMIFF) is an IMDB-qualifying event held annually.

The festival attracts celebrities, media journalists, civic and community leaders, film crews, and film enthusiasts from around the globe, as well as the DC metropolitan area (which includes Virginia and Maryland).

MIFF was established to celebrate and provide a platform for the achievements of international cinema artists. Dedicated to building a global film community and supporting emerging filmmakers, WMIFF offers all selected artists exceptional exposure with an inclusive vibe that has won over alumni, attendees, and industry members alike. WMIFF festivities are open to all, featuring some of the most talented artists in both film and music. It showcases and recognizes all independent artists worldwide.

​WMIFF has continued to strive and improve on its mission to promote and provide opportunities for artists of all genres to hone their skills and gain access to opportunities via our events, promotions, and networking opportunities. Its awardees and nominees have won or been nominated for Oscars, Emmys, and Golden Globes.

SS/SAB