Iranian Film 'Falling House' Premieres at Venice

Iranian filmmaker Mohsen Gharaei's latest feature, "Falling House," is set to make its world premiere in the Horizons section at the Venice Film Festival. The film centers on a family residing on the outskirts of Tehran whose home is threatened by a large-scale redevelopment project.

The narrative follows Rashid, the father and a prison guard, who finds himself accused of corruption. Simultaneously, he discovers his eldest daughter, Ensi, is secretly planning to depart Iran to pursue a career in modeling. Tensions escalate within the household as the demolition looms closer. Gharaei describes the film's themes, noting that "the most terrifying structures are the ones that no longer need a tyrant."

Written by Mohsen Gharaei and Amir Mohammad Abdi, "Falling House" features a cast including Laleh Marzban, Rima Raminfar, Farhad Aslani, and Elena Khakbaz. The production boasts a notable crew, with music by Max Richter, cinematography by Farshad Mohammadi, and editing by Evelyn Rack and Emad Khodabakhsh. Oscar-nominated Ansgar Frerich handled the sound design.

Produced by Milad Khosravi and Mohsen Gharaei for Seven Springs Pictures, alongside Odessa Rae for RaeFilm Studios and a team from 3SIX9 Studios, the film also benefits from co-production by Basis Berlin Filmproduktion and Zentropa Germany. Jon Kilik serves as executive producer. Producer Milad Khosravi stated the film carries a warning felt for years and reflects the suffering of ordinary people facing oppression and uncertainty.

Odessa Rae emphasized that "Falling House" focuses on people living under the weight of systems, with Mohsen Gharaei capturing this experience with "extraordinary restraint." Jeanne Loriotti of Paradise City Sales highlighted the film's compelling plot, urgent sense of urgency, layered characters, emotional depth, and remarkable performances, particularly from the female cast. Paradise City Sales is managing worldwide sales for the film internationally.