On the occasion of National Cinema Day, the Director of Iran’s Cinema Organization, Mohammad Khazaei, emphasized the significant role of Iranian cinema and its filmmakers in shaping the country's cultural landscape.
In a statement released by the Public Relations Department of the ICO, Khazaei highlighted the organization's commitment to the prosperity of the film industry and addressing the concerns of filmmakers.
Khazaei's message emphasized the profound impact of cinema as an art-industry-media entity in driving the development and advancement of Iranian society. He recalled the famous quote by the Leader of Islamic Republic, emphasizing the key role of cinema and filmmakers in the progress of the nation. Khazaei asserted that all efforts and planning should aim to bridge the gap between this vision and its practical realization.
National Cinema Day holds a special place not only in the cultural calendar of Islamic Iran but also in the hearts of all those associated with the film industry. Khazaei extended his warmest congratulations to the extended family of Iranian cinema on this momentous occasion.
Reflecting on the past year, Khazaei noted that the organization has taken strides towards establishing sustainable development based on three pillars: lawfulness, standardization, and justice-centeredness, with the aim of revitalizing and flourishing the film industry, enhancing film production and distribution, and elevating the social and qualitative growth of cinema. He emphasized the efforts to ensure that the heart of cinema remains vibrant and that the benefits, relationships, and resources are accessible to all, not just a select few.
Khazaei underscored the connection between the 13th government, which is a revolutionary and people-centric administration, and the film industry. He acknowledged the gap that exists between society and cinema, a gap that was widened by the COVID-19 pandemic, and expressed the organization's commitment to overcoming this challenge. While acknowledging the ongoing challenges and obstacles, Khazaei emphasized the importance of unity and harmony within the cinematic community to achieve their lofty goals and grand visions.
The ICO, Khazaei asserted, represents all those who value culture, national and Islamic identity, and social dignity. The majority of the cinematic family aligns with the cultural governance, and their preference is to work in a professional and peaceful environment. National Cinema Day presents an opportunity to support artists who, despite their criticisms of certain conditions, have a thirst for artistic expression. Khazaei extended an open invitation to all artists, talented filmmakers, and those who consider themselves part of this Iranian-Islamic culture, assuring them that the doors of the ICO are always open. He reaffirmed the organization's pledge to serve the honorable cinema of Iran faithfully.
Khazaei also emphasized the importance of engaging with the media and welcoming fair and constructive criticism. He acknowledged that the advancement of cinema is intricately linked to the presence of inquisitive, critical, and caring media outlets.
The ICO's unwavering commitment, Khazaei asserted, is to uphold lawfulness, promote cultural justice, and elevate the social status of cinema. He recognized the impact of cinema as one of the most influential social institutions in contemporary society and expressed his vision for a thriving cinema movement, the exploration of new national and international capacities, the development of cinema infrastructure in various cities, the discovery of fresh talents, the revival of provincial cinema, and the inclusion of all young people and enthusiasts of Iranian cinema in cultural events and programs.
National Cinema Day, which coincides with the birthday of the great martyr of the pen, Seyyed Morteza Avini, serves as a reminder to appreciate the invaluable legacy that has flourished in the wake of the Islamic Revolution. Khazaei expressed gratitude to all filmmakers, from veterans to young talents, and pledged to move forward, building on the rich legacy of Iranian Islamic cinema, which is the essence of all the struggles, sacrifices, and endeavors of creative and noble Iranian filmmakers.
In conclusion, Khazaei extended warm wishes for a happy National Cinema Day.