We are delighted to announce that the opening movie of the 10th Persian Film Festival is the award-winning drama/horror film "Zalava" by Arsalan Amiri.

Set in 1978 in a small village in Iran, the story revolves around a young gendarmerie sergeant named Massoud, who investigates claims of a demon among the villagers. When he arrests an exorcist on charges of fraud, the villagers' fear and anger escalate, and Massoud finds himself and his love interest, a government doctor, trapped in a cursed house surrounded by villagers who believe they are possessed by the demon.

"Zalava" has received critical acclaim and numerous awards, including the Critics' Week Grand Prize at the Venice Film Festival in 2021. It has also been showcased at other prestigious festivals such as Toronto, Rotterdam, and Goteborg. Amiri, the writer and director of the film, has stated that it sheds light on the powerful beliefs of the masses.

Don't miss this gripping and thought-provoking film that explores the intersection of belief and fear.