TEHRAN- The 20th edition of Kazan International Film Festival- Altyn Minbar is set to kick off with the premiere of “In the Arms of the Tree,” by Iranian director Babak Khajepasha in the Russian city on September 6. 

The film follows the struggles of an entrepreneurial family on the verge of collapse. At the heart of the story is Kimia, a northern mother grappling with the trauma of past abuse and a debilitating fear of distance. Her husband, Farid, an Azeri father with a passion for travel and medicinal plants, adds to the tension as the couple prepares for a separation exercise. 

As Kimia and Farid's relationship deteriorates, their two sons, 11-year-old Taha and his five-year-old brother Alisan, become unlikely heroes in this emotional turmoil. Taha, deeply caring and protective, is determined to shield Alisan from the fallout of their parents' crises. The boys' strong bond and friendship serve as a beacon of hope amid the tumult, highlighting the innocence of childhood and the power of familial love in the face of adversity. 

The film captures the impact of marital discord on children, illustrating how their lives can be disturbed by their parents' struggles. Ultimately, it underscores the importance of love, connection, and the delicate balance needed to preserve a family in crisis.

This screening will mark the film's first showing in Russia, specifically in Kazan.

Nina Kochelyaeva, head of the festival's selection committee, emphasized the significance of 2024, declared the Year of Family, which inspired the choice of "In the Arms of the Tree" as the festival's opening film. She remarked, “This psychological family drama was chosen as the opening film precisely because it explores themes of respecting children's choices and the importance of nurturing family bonds.”

Deputy Mufti for Information Policy Rishat Khamidullin advocates for families to watch “In the Arms of the Tree” together, highlighting the extensive number of screening venues available.

He underscored the profound impact of cinema, noting its capacity to shape self-awareness and cultural identity. He cautioned, “In the wrong hands, film can distort values and erode our connections to our identity. It is crucial to uphold family values and mutual respect between men and women, as these principles are foundational in both Islam and Russian culture. If we fail to promote traditional values, we risk allowing conflicting priorities to infiltrate our culture.”

On September 6, the festival's opening day, the film will be screened at “Mir” and “Rodina” cinemas, with additional open-air screenings scheduled at the public office of the Kazan Kremlin and along the scenic embankment of Lake Kaban.

As is tradition, the opening film will pave the way for the festival's overall tone and themes.

The 20th Kazan International Film Festival- Altyn Minbar will run until September 6. 

The Altyn Minbar festival receives support from the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation. The Kazan International Film Festival is conducted under the auspices of Rustam Minnikhanov, the President of the Republic of Tatarstan, and the Ministry of Culture of Russia, in collaboration with the strategic vision group “Russia-Islamic World.”

SAB/