TEHRAN- In a recent interview with the Tehran Times, Marzieh Hashemi, an American-Iranian journalist, television presenter, and the new secretary of Ammar Popular Film Festival, spoke passionately about the evolving role of the festival in showcasing revolutionary art and providing a platform for underrepresented voices. 

Hashemi articulated a vision for expanding Ammar festival's reach beyond its regional origins to embrace a more global perspective.

"Since its inception by the late Iranian filmmaker Nader Talebzadeh, the Ammar festival has served as an essential counterpoint to events like the Fajr Film Festival. It offers revolutionary filmmakers a chance to present their works and share messages that often go unheard," Hashemi shared. She emphasized the importance of discovering emerging talents, particularly young artists, whose perspectives contribute to the festival's unique narrative.

As the secretary of the festival and a judge in various editions, Hashemi expressed excitement over Ammar festival's aspirations to open its doors wider— “not just to Iran or our region, but to the world.” This bold approach aims to unite artists from the resistance front facing Western hegemony, granting them much-needed visibility through their art.

Towards international expansion

When questioned about the Ammar festival's transition from a localized event to an international one, Hashemi acknowledged the need for gradual growth. “We knew from the beginning that jumping too far too fast could set us up for failure. The natural progression has brought in works from neighboring regions like Yemen, gradually paving the way for more global submissions," she explained. She emphasized the importance of maintaining the quality of the received works as well. 

“However, in a world rife with censorship, many artists, especially those in Western countries, are searching for platforms to share their truths. It's crucial that we connect with them and showcase their works. Our immediate priority is effective public relations—getting the word out about Ammar festival and what it stands for."

A symbol of revolutionary art

Hashemi articulated a clear distinction between Ammar festival and mainstream festivals that, in her view, often mimic Western styles. “We aim not to replicate a Hollywood formula but to highlight genuine narratives that resonate with anti-imperialist sentiment. Our goal is to give voice to marginalized perspectives and share their stories with the world,” she stated.

Regarding the pressing reality of contemporary media and its influence on the narratives surrounding resistance movements, Hashemi acknowledged that while Western media holds significant power, that influence is waning. “Just as people underestimated Iran after the revolution, they are now beginning to see the multifaceted realities of global struggles, which challenge previous misconceptions,” she noted. 

Highlighting heroism in adversity

Hashemi also introduced the Wafa Prize, an award named after Palestinian journalist and activist Wafa Aludaini, who was martyred along with her family in an Israeli air strike in late September. “These days, we are witnessing the systematic targeting of journalists and attempts to silence them by the Israeli regime. We've never seen anything like this on such a scale,” she remarked.

“This prize aims to honor journalists who risk their lives to share the truth. It is a statement against silencing voices and a testament to the sacrifices made by those striving to expose the reality on the ground,” she explained.

Reflecting on the role of filmmaking amid overarching pressure and censorship, Hashemi encouraged filmmakers to portray genuine stories rather than relying solely on scripted narratives. “Today’s audiences crave reality. The era of grand fantasies has passed; people want to see the truth of their heroes,” she asserted, suggesting that there lies a unique opportunity for filmmakers to redefine storytelling.

“In this time, we do not need to deal with fictional and fake superheroes when unbelievable realities are taking place that simply need to be shown. We have incredible heroes who deserve to be seen as they truly are.” 

“It is important for our filmmakers and documentarians to start highlighting these individuals. I believe that the world, the whole world, after what we have witnessed over the last year, would be quite interested in knowing the truth of the real heroes, such as Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani and what he accomplished,” she added. 

“For the most part, people would be interested to learn how he fought against terrorism and how he gave his life not only for Iran but for the entire region. Or consider martyr Sinwar. In these cases, we must reflect the reality. We have real superheroes; we just need to show the world who they are and represent the truth about them.”

“To do so, we have a challenging road ahead, as Western audiences have been misled and presented with a negative image of these true heroes. First, we must overcome that narrative. We will have to work hard—there's no doubt about it,” she explained. 

“We are contending with over a hundred years of propaganda, and the unfortunate reality is that Westerners and the Israeli regime have no red lines when it comes to spreading false news and lies, while we do have our own red lines,” she mentioned. 

“However, I do believe that people are now much more ready to hear the truth than they were before October 7. The events of the past year have shattered many of their false beliefs. The ongoing conflict and genocide in Gaza have prompted them to start questioning everything.”

The future of Ammar: a collective vision

As Hashemi looked ahead to the next decade, she expressed hope that the Ammar Festival would evolve into a major forum for the anti-imperialist front. "With the shifting power dynamics in the world, particularly from West to East, the Ammar festival can serve as a bridge uniting artists from across the globe. Together, we can stand not just for Muslims but for anyone who resists oppression," she declared.
 
“The festival now holds a significant place among oppressed people. Before starting this interview, I received a video from the children of Gaza, in which they graciously mentioned me and the Ammar Festival, expressing their support. I want to take this opportunity to thank them and say that we truly appreciate their support for the festival. We eagerly look forward to receiving works from Gaza to participate in the festival.”

In closing, Hashemi reiterated the importance of artistry in fighting against genocide and depicting the truth of what is happening in the world. "This is a critical time for artists to mobilize, present their narratives, and remind the world that the truth is on our side," she concluded.

As the Ammar Popular Film Festival prepares for its upcoming session, Hashemi's insights assure that it will continue to be a beacon for revolutionary art and resistance, inviting voices that challenge the status quo while fostering artistic growth and solidarity worldwide.

The Ammar Popular Film Festival seeks to showcase diverse artistic contributions and support movements that transcend borders through art. The festival's mission is to amplify voices that challenge oppressive narratives and encourage active engagement from all sections of society.

Over its 14 previous editions, the Ammar Popular Film Festival has focused on elevating the voices of people who have remained resilient against agendas aimed at promoting apathy and distortion. It regards art as a vehicle for unity, urging individuals to gather around the common principles of justice and equity. This year, the festival aims to further explore the dynamic interplay between societal struggle and artistic expression, emphasizing that all communities, regardless of geographic, ethnic, or social boundaries, have a vital role in creating and consuming art.

Ammar Popular Film Festival was established in 2010 by a number of Iranian revolutionary figures to honor film and art products promoting topics such as resistance and revolution. It was named after Ammar Yasir, a close companion of the Prophete Muhammad (PBUH).

The 15th edition of the festival will be held in Tehran and several other Iranian cities in December.

SAB/