The Seed of the Sacred Fig is an impactful film that blends political commentary, family drama, and psychological thriller elements into a tense and engaging experience. Directed by Iranian filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof, who has been exiled from his home country due to his critical stance on the Iranian regime. The film holds a mirror to both personal and societal struggles and shot in secret. It marks Rasoulof’s tenth film, a work that reflects the socio-political unrest sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody​.

At the center of the story is Iman, played by Missagh Zareh, a loyal judge’s investigator in Tehran in the middle of a political storm when a series of government protests shakes his already fragile family dynamic. His wife, Najmeh, played by Soheila Golestani, and his daughters, Rezvan, and Sana played by Mahsa Rostami and Setareh Maleki respectively, each find themselves on opposite ends of the struggle between tradition and progress. The tension escalates as Iman’s paranoia builds, leading him to enforce strict, sometimes irrational rules. This internal family breakdown parallels the societal collapse outside, making the stakes of every character’s choices feel important​.

One of the film’s most strongest qualities is how it blends those simple moments at home with the larger theme of rebellion against oppression. The performances from the entire cast are grounded, believable, and reflect the emotional toll living under a system like that can take. The film’s runtime unfolds slowly and feels lengthy at times but builds toward a thrilling climax that forces viewers to question the notion of freedom itself.

The film doesn’t shy away from critique of both government overreach and the drastic measures taken by those who oppose it, giving the film a morally complex foundation. It explores how freedom can be compromised not only by authoritarian forces but also by misguided rebellions. Iman’s increasing paranoia and controlling behavior at home mirrors the government’s control that he once stood for. It creates a parallel that forces the audience to reflect on how deeply various systems of control can infiltrate personal lives​.

The film’s cinematography led by Pooyan Aghababaei, captures the simmering unrest well, using shadows and light to intensify the film’s growing tension. Spliced in real-life footage of protests help ground the film in current socio-political context and creating a sense of urgency in the narrative.

Overall, The Seed of the Sacred Fig is a bold, provocative film that challenges viewers to think critically about the nature of control, rebellion, and personal freedom. While the heavy subject matter might not appeal to everyone, its direction and powerful performances make it one of the standout films of the 62nd New York Film Festival. The film is a testament to Rasoulof’s voice as a filmmaker and his dedication to shedding light on Iran’s political struggles through art​.

4.5/5