Islamabad; Iranian filmmaker Soheil Beiraghi’s latest film Bidad—translated as Outcry in English—has been generating significant buzz even before its world premiere at the 59th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (KVIFF) on Wednesday.
The festival held back the announcement of Bidad as the 12th entry in the Crystal Globe Competition to ensure Beiraghi could safely travel to the Czech Republic, given the sensitive nature of his film in Iran.
Bidad tells the story of Seti, a Gen Z girl in Tehran who defies societal restrictions by singing publicly, despite laws that prohibit women from performing in public spaces.
The film stars Sarvin Zabetian (180 Degree Rule, Terrestrial Verses), along with Leili Rashidi and Amir Jadidi. Beiraghi, known for works like I, Cold Sweat, and Popular, not only wrote, directed, and produced the film, but also co-edited and oversaw art direction under his banner Alef Pictures, which is also managing its sales.
Filmed covertly to avoid state interference, Bidad has attracted widespread attention, especially after it was revealed that Beiraghi faced investigations by Iranian authorities during production. The Hollywood Reporter recently released the film’s trailer, highlighting Seti’s determination not to be silenced.
Speaking to THR through an interpreter, Beiraghi shared that his inspiration came from the countless young women in Tehran who struggle under societal and familial constraints. “It’s a story inspired by their existence and the challenges they face in Iran,” he said.
Beiraghi added that the film’s visuals and music underscore the idea that many women possess “an angel inside that sings lullabies,” even if their voices are suppressed. For him, imagining these hidden songs being heard is profoundly moving and served as a driving force behind creating Bidad, despite the risks he knew he might face.
