The Iranian film *"Cause of Death: Unknown,"* directed by Ali Zarnagar, has been officially selected for The Pigeon International Film Festival (PIFF) in Ísafjörður, Iceland. Now in its third year, PIFF will take place from October 9 to October 12, showcasing a variety of international films in this unique Nordic setting.
The selection of *”Cause of Death: Unknown”* for The Pigeon International Film Festival in Iceland adds to the film’s growing acclaim on the international circuit. Set against the stark and surreal landscape of Iran’s Lut Desert, the film delves into a suspenseful narrative involving seven passengers who find themselves entangled in mystery and ethical conflict after discovering an unclaimed body in their van. As they confront the unsettling situation, they are forced to make difficult decisions that test their moral boundaries.
Following recent screenings at festivals such as the Torino Underground Cinefest and the Monadnock International Film Festival in New Hampshire, *”Cause of Death: Unknown”* has consistently captivated audiences with its intense storytelling and evocative cinematography. Its selection for PIFF underscores the film’s universal appeal and its success in reaching diverse audiences around the world.
The Pigeon International Film Festival (PIFF), based in the picturesque town of Ísafjörður, is dedicated to celebrating fresh voices in world cinema. Although young, the festival has gained recognition for its commitment to showcasing innovative storytelling, with awards across categories like Best Narrative Feature, Best Documentary, and Audience Choice.
At Raft Film, we are honored to see *”Cause of Death: Unknown”* selected for PIFF and thrilled for the opportunity to connect with Icelandic audiences. This selection reaffirms the film’s impact across borders, as it continues to bring powerful, culturally resonant stories to the forefront of global cinema.
Cause of Death: Unknown, written and directed by Ali Zarnegar and produced by Majid Barzegar, represents Iran at the 2026 Academy Awards and will compete in the Main Competition of the 11th Asian World Film Festival (AWFF) in Los Angeles. The film, set in Iran’s haunting Lut Desert, follows seven
The Iranian feature Cause of Death: Unknown, directed by Ali Zarnegar and produced by Majid Barzegar, has been officially selected as Iran’s submission for the 2026 Academy Awards. Represented internationally by Raft Films, the film has already won major prizes.
The Iranian drama Cause of Death: Unknown, directed by Ali Zarnegar, has officially been selected by Iran’s national committee as the country’s representative for the 2026 Academy Awards. The unanimous decision underscores the film’s artistic significance and its growing recognition on the global stage.
Every once in a while, a film rises beyond its plot and characters to hold up a mirror to an entire society. Cause of Death: Unknown, directed by Ali Zarnegar, is precisely such a work — not just a story, but an odyssey. Unfolding over the course of a night
