The documentary "Homa," directed by Gelareh Abbasi, has been awarded the jury's special prize at the Accolade Global Film Competition. This recognition marks the film's fourth international appearance, cementing its status as the best documentary in this prestigious American festival's twentieth edition
Produced by Dorsa Shafiee and distributed by Raft Film Co., “Homa” stands out for its compelling narrative and impactful storytelling. The Accolade Global Film Competition is known for its annual philanthropic awards, which highlight exceptional contributions to social justice, animal welfare, political affairs, environmental issues, health, disability, and public awareness.
“Homa” tells the inspiring story of Homa Homavandi, a determined and self-confident woman who works in a de-addiction camp. Despite facing numerous challenges and restrictions in her life, Homa remains actively engaged in her community, showcasing resilience and strength.
Before this accolade, the documentary had already garnered significant recognition. It received a Diploma of Honor from the FicFusa Festival in Colombia and was featured at both the A Royal Chance Film Festival and the Melbourne Documentary Film Festival.
The talented crew behind “Homa” includes Director Advisor Pejman Teymourtasdh, Plan Executor Katayoun Arsanjani, Cameraman Gelareh Kiazand, Editor Hamid Najafirad, Music Composer Mahgol Moghtader, Sound Recordists Mahmoud Kashani and Navid Mehr, and Voice-over Artist Erfan Ebrahimi.
This award from the Accolade Global Film Competition not only celebrates the artistic achievements of “Homa” but also underscores the importance of the film’s message and its contributions to raising awareness on critical social issues.
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
