Critical Zone, an Iranian drama shot in secret by director Ali Ahmadzadeh, has won the Golden Leopard for Best Film at the 2023 Locarno Film Festival.
Ahmadzadeh, who is not allowed to leave Iran, could not attend the award ceremony. The Iranian government pressured the director to withdraw the film from the competition. The film tells the story of a man and his dog who travel through Tehran's underworld to sell drugs and talk with troubled souls. In doing so, Critical Zone shows a society rebelling against the oppressive regime in any way possible.
The film can also be seen during WCA 2023. Click here for dates, playtimes & tickets.
