From its captivating history and diverse culture to its dynamic politics and social dynamics, these documentaries about Iran provide an intimate look into the heart of the country.
Documentaries About Iran
Unveiling layers of Iran’s past and present, these documentaries aim to foster a deeper appreciation for its multifaceted identity and dispel misconceptions that may surround this historically significant nation.
Of course, there are many other documentaries about Iran to watch apart from these, but this will give an excellent overview of different aspects of the country.
On a personal note, I spent several weeks travelling to different parts of Iran and loved my time there. I met many friendly people and was fascinated by the historical places I visited and the different cultures I experienced.
Joanna Lumley’s Silk Road Adventure (2018)
Joanna Lumley’s Silk Road Adventure is a travel documentary series featuring the British actress and former model Joanna Lumley. In the show, Lumley embarks on a journey along the ancient Silk Road, exploring the history, culture, and landscapes of the countries along this historic trade route.
In episode 3 she focuses solely on Iran, and it is a joy to watch. I wanted to start this list of the best documentaries about Iran, with a more upbeat modern look at the country, through the eyes of an open-minded travel host.
Along the way, she meets local people, experiences different traditions, and discovers the rich history of the Silk Road. The series combines Lumley’s engaging storytelling with stunning visuals to provide viewers with a captivating exploration of the diverse regions linked by the ancient trade route.
You can watch the full episode about Iran for free here:
Rick Steves’ Iran (2014)
Rick Steves’ Iran is keeping with the travel-host-related theme of exploring Iran, and in this case, it follows American travel writer and TV host Rick Steve as he travels around the country.
He finds out about Iran’s past as well as more modern-day Iran while meeting many local people on the way. Similar to Joanna Lumley, Rick is an upbeat host who takes you on a captivating journey through this fascinating land.
You can watch the full episode for free here:
Now to some more serious documentaries about Iran…
Iran and the West (2009)
Iran and the West is a three-part documentary series that provides a comprehensive examination of the complex relationship between Iran and the Western world.
Through in-depth interviews with key political figures, diplomats, and insiders, the documentary traces the historical evolution of Iran’s interactions with the West from the early 20th century to contemporary times.
The first episode, “The Man Who Changed the World,” delves into the role of Mohammad Mossadegh, the Iranian Prime Minister who nationalized the country’s oil industry in 1951, leading to his ousting in a coup orchestrated by the CIA and MI6. This event had far-reaching consequences for Iran’s political trajectory and its relationship with the West.
The second episode, “The Pariah State,” covers the period following the 1979 Iranian Revolution, the hostage crisis at the U.S. Embassy in Tehran, and the subsequent isolation of Iran on the international stage. It explores the ideological underpinnings of the revolution and the impact of Ayatollah Khomeini’s rule on Iran’s foreign relations.
The final episode, “Nuclear Confrontation,” focuses on Iran’s nuclear program and the ensuing tensions with the West. It examines the international community’s efforts to address Iran’s nuclear ambitions, the imposition of sanctions, and the diplomatic negotiations that took place.
“Iran and the West” is one of the best documentaries about Iran to watch if you want a nuanced perspective on the geopolitical complexities and historical events that have shaped Iran’s relationship with Western powers.
Start with the first episode which you can watch for free here:
Divorce Iranian Style (1998)
Divorce Iranian Style provides a glimpse into the Iranian judicial system and the challenges women face when seeking divorce.
The documentary focuses on the divorce court in Tehran, where women navigate the complex legal process to obtain a divorce. In Iran, family law is based on Islamic Sharia law, and the film sheds light on how this legal framework impacts women’s rights in marriage and divorce.
“Divorce Iranian Style” follows the stories of several women as they go through divorce proceedings, illustrating the difficulties they encounter in a system that often favours men. The film highlights the struggles women face in asserting their rights, dealing with patriarchal norms, and navigating a legal system that may not always prioritize their interests.
Through personal interviews and courtroom scenes, the documentary explores themes of gender, justice, and the intersection of traditional values with modern legal structures in Iran. It provides a valuable perspective on the challenges women in Iran may experience within the context of family law and divorce proceedings.
Watch the full documentary for free here:
When God Sleeps (2017)
When God Sleeps focuses on the life of Iranian musician Shahin Najafi. Shahin Najafi is known for his outspoken and controversial lyrics, addressing political and social issues in Iran.
The documentary provides insight into Najafi’s life and career, particularly following the release of a controversial song that led to a fatwa issued against him by religious authorities in Iran. The fatwa, or religious decree, put Najafi’s life in danger, and he had to go into hiding to escape potential harm.
“When God Sleeps” explores themes such as freedom of expression, artistic resistance, and the challenges faced by artists in oppressive political environments. It delves into Najafi’s journey as he grapples with the consequences of his music and the impact it has on his personal life.
The film received critical acclaim for its portrayal of Najafi’s story and its examination of the broader issues of censorship and artistic freedom in Iran. It provides a compelling look at the intersection of music, politics, and personal risk in the context of an artist’s life in a repressive society.
Trailer:
The Queen and I (2008)
The Queen and I gives a unique and personal perspective on the history of Iran, particularly focusing on the life of Farah Pahlavi, the former Empress of Iran.
The film is notable for its intimate approach, as Nahid Persson Sarvestani, an Iranian exile and former communist activist, engages in a candid and thought-provoking conversation with Farah Pahlavi. Farah Pahlavi was the wife of Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran, who was overthrown in the 1979 Iranian Revolution.
“The Queen and I” explores Farah Pahlavi’s personal reflections on her life, the political upheavals in Iran, and the eventual exile of the imperial family. The documentary provides a glimpse into the private world of the Pahlavi family, offering a humanizing portrayal of individuals often seen through the lens of political turmoil.
Through the conversations between Nahid Persson Sarvestani and Farah Pahlavi, the film touches on themes of power, responsibility, and the complexities of life in exile. It also captures the emotions and challenges faced by individuals who find themselves on the losing side of a revolutionary struggle.
Watch the full documentary for free here:
Iran: A Cinematographic Revolution (2006)
Iran: A Cinematographic Revolution explores the history and evolution of Iranian cinema, providing a comprehensive look at the country’s cinematic achievements and the societal impact of its filmmakers.
The documentary spans several decades, covering the period from the early 20th century to the present day. It highlights the emergence of Iranian cinema and its growth as a powerful medium for artistic expression and social commentary.
The film delves into the works of influential Iranian directors, such as Abbas Kiarostami, Mohsen Makhmalbaf, and Jafar Panahi, among others.
“Iran: A Cinematographic Revolution” contextualizes the development of Iranian cinema within the broader sociopolitical landscape of the country. It explores how filmmakers navigated censorship, government restrictions, and societal norms to create films that often challenged the status quo and provided a unique perspective on Iranian culture.
The documentary also addresses the impact of historical events, such as the Iranian Revolution of 1979, on the film industry and the creative process of filmmakers. It sheds light on how cinema became a powerful tool for expressing dissent, reflecting societal changes, and portraying the complexities of Iranian identity.
By examining the history of Iranian cinema, the documentary not only celebrates the artistic achievements of filmmakers but also offers a deeper understanding of the cultural and political context in which these works were created, making it one of the best documentaries about Iran to watch in that context.
Watch the full documentary for free here:
Starless Dreams (2016)
Starless Dreams offers a poignant look into the lives of young women in a juvenile detention centre in Iran. The documentary delves into the personal stories, struggles, and dreams of these incarcerated girls.
The film primarily takes place in the rehabilitation centre, where the young female inmates share their experiences, regrets, and hopes for the future. Oskouei provides an intimate portrayal of their lives, giving the audience a glimpse into the complex issues that lead these girls into the criminal justice system.
It sheds light on broader social issues, such as poverty, family problems, and the challenges faced by marginalized individuals in Iranian society. The documentary captures the resilience of these young women, providing a humanizing perspective that challenges stereotypes and preconceptions.
The title, “Starless Dreams,” reflects the harsh realities these girls face and the difficult circumstances that have shaped their lives.
Trailer:
The Green Wave (2010)
The Green Wave focuses on the 2009 Iranian presidential election and its aftermath, particularly the protests that followed the disputed results. The title refers to the colour associated with the opposition movement, with green being the symbolic colour of the Iranian presidential candidate Mir-Hossein Mousavi.
The documentary combines various elements, including animated sequences, interviews, and footage from social media, to provide a multi-faceted view of the events surrounding the election and the government’s crackdown on protesters.
It sheds light on the role of social media in organizing and disseminating information during the protests and the subsequent government efforts to suppress dissent. This is one of the best political documentaries about Iran to watch.
Watch the full documentary for free here:
Taste of Iran
Taste of Iran follows the BBC Iranian expert Sadeq Saba, who is from Iran, as he travels to various regions of the country, exploring the local culture, and the different cuisines that can be found there.
This is a 13-part short documentary series, each episode being around 10 minutes long. However, it gives excellent insight into the culinary delights of the country and is an excellent watch to get a glimpse into the different regions of the country.
This is one of the best documentaries about Iran to watch that explores the cuisine of Iran.
Watch all the episodes here:
Iran
Whether delving into the aftermath of the Iranian Revolution, examining the lives of its people, or shedding light on its cinematic contributions, these films offer a nuanced understanding of a country often depicted through narrow stereotypes in mainstream media.
For more on the region have a look at the 10 best documentaries about Pakistan.
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