Born and raised in Tehran, Mohsen Ostad Ali discovered his love for cinema at an early age, leading him to study directing at the Young Cinematographers Association. His early interest in film editing played a crucial role in shaping his unique cinematic style, emphasizing sharp narratives and immersive storytelling.

Ostad Ali made his mark in documentary filmmaking with Silent and Khan Bi Khan, films that received recognition for their profound human narratives and meticulous craftsmanship. His work delves into themes of identity, resilience, and social justice, often shedding light on marginalized communities and underrepresented voices.

One of his most acclaimed films, Femininity, explores the diverse and complex experiences of womanhood through the stories of five women—Sanaz, Saedeh, Tala, Ladan, and Beheshteh—whose paths intersect at a women’s shelter in southern Tehran. The film not only highlights their struggles and aspirations but also serves as a powerful commentary on gender, society, and survival.

Femininity was awarded the “Valentina Pedicini” Award for Best Human Rights Feature and Medium-Length Movie, with the jury praising its ability to capture humanity without falling into sentimentality while maintaining a rigorous and visually coherent cinematic approach.