The Seed Of The Sacred Fig Explores Experiences of Oppression Under A Dictatorship

Australian moviegoers may find The Seed Of The Sacred Fig quite confronting and unsettling, as they learn about what life looks like under the oppressed, brutal and corrupt control of a dictatorship in Iran.

Set in the backdrop of protests and violent revolutionary riots, the story centres on a man who has received a sensitive promotion to an investigating judge within the judicial system and warns his family they must be discreet.

He quickly learns about the inhumane  treatment of prisoners who have been convicted for partaking in revolutionary actions against the dictatorship and the death indictments which he is forced to sign.

When the gun he was given by the justice department to protect his family is stolen from his home blame falls on his daughters. If the gun is not found he faces three years in prison. But were they responsible for the theft knowing this would reflect horribly and defame their father? And if so, what purpose would stealing the gun serve?

To be silent and suppress any negative opinions about the dictatorship is the only way to survive.

“I live in this country. I have eyes” is a piece of dialogue delivered by one of the daughters, highlighting the knowledge of their oppressed and controlled living standards. The agitation is prevalent, as is the urgent need for social reform.

“When will I live for myself?” his other daughter asks, as she is forced to wear the hijab outdoors. Her controlling father disallows her to apply nail polish and dye her hair. “I’m not controlling – I just look after my family!” he retaliates.

The last act is gripping with several twists which draw attention to how a family unit is decimated on account of the fear and turmoil amid a society in upheaval.

Some audiences may be shocked by the events that unfold, as we’re fortunate to be living in a country which is democratic and where freedom of speech is permissible.

At a lengthy running time of 2hr 47mins this may be challenging viewing for some audiences, but the long-drawn-out running time is justifiable as there’s so much packed into the story, compounding to the clarity and dramatic effect.

This profoundly realistic and significant drama utilises real-life footage of recent protests in Iran. Overwhelmingly depressing, it sends a relatable message to the outside world concerning the importance of freedom and the rebellion of the masses for change in Iran.

Incredibly, acclaimed filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof shot this film in secret resulting in his persecution which eventually forced him to flee Iran.

Ultimately, audiences should come to the realisation of how blessed we are to be living a cherished life in Australia.

The Seed Of The Sacred Fig

***1/2

The Seed Of The Sacred Fig is in cinemas from February 27.